What is the status of water crossings on the trail?

In mid-July, the East Fork Foss River crossing was described as a difficult stream crossing, requiring hikers to take off shoes and ford the river. Reports from [2026-07-14](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-15.195531486307) also mention a creek crossing that was passable up to the knees.

Are there any significant boulder fields or overgrown sections on the trail?

Yes, multiple reports from mid-July and late August describe extensive boulder fields and overgrown sections, particularly in the higher alpine areas and after the East Fork Foss River crossing.

What is the parking situation like at the trailheads?

On [2026-09-19](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-22.115931429246), parking lots were full by 9:30 AM on a Saturday, with cars lining the road. Another report from [2026-07-25](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-27.215023425519) noted very crowded parking by 12:30 PM on a Saturday.

Tank Lakes

Q: What are the current conditions regarding snow and downed trees on the Tank Lakes trail?

As of [2026-09-26](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-28.151713755529), there are intermittent snow patches and downed trees across the trail. However, the snow is not difficult to cross, and the road access is suitable for all vehicles.

Central Cascades

updated 1 month ago

Reports from 2026-09-26 indicate intermittent snow and downed trees on the Tank Lakes trail, though the road remains suitable for all vehicles and bugs are not an issue. Earlier in the season, conditions were mixed. On 2026-09-19, the trail was snow-free and in good condition with no bugs reported, though parking could be crowded. 2026-08-19 brought reports of overgrown sections, difficult stream crossings, and mud/rock slides, but also noted the trail was snow-free with manageable bugs. In mid-July, the trail presented significant obstacles including downed trees, overgrown areas, difficult stream crossings, and extensive boulder fields. Snow was present in some areas in early and mid-July, but was generally passable. Bugs were also noted as an annoyance in mid-July.

Generated from 23 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Tank 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 2026-09-26, there are intermittent snow patches and downed trees across the trail. However, the snow is not difficult to cross, and the road access is suitable for all vehicles.