What are the current trail conditions regarding blowdowns or obstacles?

As of late July, there were some fallen trees on the trail, with one being a bit challenging near Upper Palisades Lake, [July 5](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-05.202513782626). However, by July 20 and [July 10](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-11.102557574857), trail crews had cleared most blowdowns, making them easily navigable. Some reports noted these obstacles posed few problems, July 7, July 5.

What is the general state of the lakes, particularly regarding water levels?

Water levels at the lakes are generally lower than usual. Upper Palisades Lake had a pretty low water level in late July, [July 22](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-22.202924698986). Dick's Lake's water was described as scummy. However, running water was found by Hidden Lake and at Upper Palisades Lake, though in trickles in many spots.

How are the mosquito and bug conditions on the trail?

Bug conditions vary, with some reports indicating they were an annoyance, particularly in shaded or wooded sections, recommending bug spray and long sleeves, [July 22](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-22.202924698986), July 10, [July 7](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-10.121003758137). Other reports from early to mid-July stated bugs were not too bad, August 3, July 29, July 10, July 5.

What is the likelihood of encountering wildlife on the trail?

There is a good chance of encountering wildlife. Several hikers reported seeing black bears, including cubs, and advised carrying bear spray or hiking in groups, [August 3](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-03.172827100147), [July 29](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-30.214455623548). Pikas were frequently sighted in rocky areas, July 22, July 10, July 5. Elk tracks and scat were also noted, July 22, July 14, and deer were seen, July 5.

Palisades Lakes

Mount Rainier Area

updated 1 month ago

The Palisades Lakes trail is currently snow-free and in good condition. Wildflowers, particularly lupine, were reported to be at peak bloom in late July, July 29, and July 23. While most reports indicate the road is suitable for all vehicles, some hikers have noted that bugs can be an annoyance, especially in shaded or wooded areas, recommending bug spray, July 10, July 7. Several reports mention wildlife sightings, including black bears, pikas, elk, and deer, August 2, July 29, July 14. Parking at the trailhead can be competitive, particularly on weekends and fee-free days, with some visitors arriving early to secure a spot, July 29, July 5. There are occasional fallen trees on the trail, but most are easily navigated, July 10, July 7, July 5.

Generated from 33 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Palisades Lakes

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 1 month ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

No trip reports on this trail in 1 month, so everything below is at least that old.

As of late July, there were some fallen trees on the trail, with one being a bit challenging near Upper Palisades Lake, July 5. However, by July 20 and July 10, trail crews had cleared most blowdowns, making them easily navigable. Some reports noted these obstacles posed few problems, July 7, July 5.