What is the road access like to the trailhead?

The road to the trailhead is currently suitable for all vehicles, with no issues reported by hikers between [July 3](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-04.073911283360) and [September 6](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-07.111639221291). However, one report from July 8 advised that if coming from the south on I-5, Old Samish Rd. is closed and to take exit 250 (Fairhaven) and head south on Old Samish Rd. instead.

What are the trail conditions like, specifically regarding obstacles?

The trail is generally in good condition with minor obstacles posing few problems as of [September 6](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-07.111639221291). No significant obstacles were noted on [July 7](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-08.045550176138), and it was described as in good condition on July 8 and August 17.

Are there any specific wildlife encounters to be aware of?

One hiker reported a territorial barred owl that swooped down and grazed their hat between Cedar and Pine Lakes on [August 17](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-17.210902161781). It is advisable to be aware of your surroundings in this section.

What is the parking situation like at the trailhead?

On a Sunday of Labor Day weekend, the trailhead parking was almost full at 11 AM and half full by 2:30 PM on [September 6](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-07.111639221291). There was also a port-a-potty at the trailhead that was not too shabby.

Pine and Cedar Lakes

Puget Sound and Islands

updated 2 weeks ago

Pine and Cedar Lakes are currently snow-free and the roads are suitable for all vehicles, according to reports from July 3 through September 6. Trail conditions are generally good, though the first 1.5 to 1.6 miles are described as very steep and challenging, with most of the elevation gain occurring in this section. After this initial climb, the trail becomes more gradual. Hikers have noted that the lakes themselves can be somewhat secluded by vegetation and that Pine Lake, in particular, can be overgrown, making it easy to get lost on the way out as reported on July 3. One report from August 17 mentioned a territorial barred owl between Cedar and Pine Lakes. Parking at the trailhead was nearly full on a Sunday afternoon on Labor Day weekend.

Generated from 26 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Pine and Cedar Lakes

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 2 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

The road to the trailhead is currently suitable for all vehicles, with no issues reported by hikers between July 3 and September 6. However, one report from July 8 advised that if coming from the south on I-5, Old Samish Rd. is closed and to take exit 250 (Fairhaven) and head south on Old Samish Rd. instead.