Howard Lake Trail

Q: Are there bears? What's the risk?

Yes. Bears and elk frequent this area. Make noise while hiking, stay 100 yards away if you spot one, and never approach. Proper behavior keeps you safe.

Q: Do I need a permit for a day hike?

No permit needed for day use at Howard Lake. If you're camping at High Bridge or Tumwater nearby, a backcountry permit is required—obtain one from the ranger station.

Q: How long does this actually take?

2-4 hours round-trip depending on fitness and stops. The 600 ft gain means most people spend 1.5-2 hours going up and 45 minutes-1 hour coming down.

Q: Is the lake worth the climb?

The lake itself is small with limited access. The real value is the forest, mountain views during the climb, and loop option. Hike it for the journey, not the destination.

Q: What's the loop option like?

Continue past the lake 1 mile on Old Wagon Trail to Stehekin Valley Road, turn left and walk 1.7 miles down the road back to High Bridge. Road descent is much gentler than the steep trail—saves your knees.

Distance

1.2 mi

Elevation Gain

600 ft

Est. Time

2 to 4 hours depending on fitness and loop choice; allow extra time if photographing.

Route Type

Out-and-back or loop option via Old Wagon Trail and Stehekin Valley Road (3.5-mile loop)

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Late May through late September (park operational season)

Overview

About This Trail

Howard Lake Trail is a moderate, 1.2-mile uphill climb through Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine forest to a small, wildlife-rich mountain lake. You'll gain 600 feet of elevation with solid views of surrounding peaks. The lake itself has limited shoreline, but the views and forest isolation make the grunt worthwhile. Loop option: continue to Stehekin Valley Road for 3.5-mile round-trip.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Trail Highlights

Secluded mountain lake with good views of surrounding peaks. Wildlife-rich forest. Loop option descends via gentle Stehekin Valley Road.

Insider Tips

• The "lake" is small—real payoff is views from the switchbacks and McGregor Mountain Trail junction. • Don't stop at first lake view; continue to explore. • If doing the loop, descend via Stehekin Valley Road—it's much gentler than the steep trail, saving your knees. • Old Wagon Trail junction (1 mile past lake) gives option to extend into a full valley loop.

Best Season to Hike

Late May through late September (park operational season)

Hiking Tips

Bring at least 2L water—the 600 ft gain is unrelenting.
Trekking poles ease the descent.
Make noise for bears; stay 100 yards away if spotted.
Restrooms and picnic tables at High Bridge—use them before the climb.
Trail is steeper than Stehekin Valley Road if you loop; choose your order wisely.
Leash dogs at all times.

Family Info

Suitable for active families with older kids comfortable on steep terrain. Hand-holding recommended on steeper sections. Lake has little usable shoreline, so swimming is limited.

What Hikers Say

Hikers say the 600-foot climb is steep but manageable for fit hikers; most rate the mountain views and forest solitude as worth the effort. The lake itself is a letdown—small and hard to access—but the journey and loop option redeem it. Best for those seeking a solid moderate challenge, not a casual stroll.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 600 ft

Duration: 2 to 4 hours depending on fitness and loop choice; allow extra time if photographing.

Difficulty: Moderate

Route Type: Out-and-back or loop option via Old Wagon Trail and Stehekin Valley Road (3.5-mile loop)

Surface: Forest floor—dirt, roots, and small rocks. Becomes steeper and more uneven in upper sections.

Getting There

Trailhead: High Bridge, 11 miles up Stehekin Valley Road from Stehekin Landing. Look for Pacific Crest Trail north marker behind horse corral.

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Howard Lake is day-use only; no camping at the lake. Backcountry permit required for overnight stays at nearby High Bridge Camp or Tumwater Camp.

Fees: Free day use. America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entrance to all federal recreation areas and can be used at North Cascades.

Shuttle Available

Stehekin Valley Road is accessible by vehicle or shuttle from Stehekin Landing; loop option uses the road for descent (less steep than trail).

Trail Rules

Dogs: Yes, leashed only

Trail Markers: Well-marked and maintained NPS trail. Start at Pacific Crest Trail north marker behind horse corral.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Howard Lake at destination. Filter or treat before drinking. Creeks likely present along trail; verify condition before relying on them.

Shade: Mostly shaded under forest canopy; some open sections in upper switchbacks.

Cell Service: Limited to none; remote Stehekin Valley has poor coverage. Do not rely on cell service for emergencies.

Hazards:

The 600-foot elevation gain over 1.2 miles creates steep, relentless switchbacks. Trail becomes slippery in wet conditions. Bears and elk frequent the area—maintain 100-yard distance and make noise. Lake has little usable shoreline. Steep sections of the loop trail are more challenging than Stehekin Valley Road descent.

Emergency: Ranger station at North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem (open late May-late September). Emergency: 911. Nearest facilities: High Bridge and Stehekin Landing.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to low; remote Stehekin location and 11-mile access road limit casual traffic.

Peak Times: Summer weekends (June-August), especially Saturdays.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty, steep, and uneven due to 600 ft elevation gain compacted into 1.2 miles. Not accessible for wheelchairs or those with mobility limitations.

Family Notes:

Suitable for active families with older kids comfortable on steep terrain. Hand-holding recommended on steeper sections. Lake has little usable shoreline, so swimming is limited.

Nearby Facilities

High Bridge area has vault toilets and picnic tables. High Bridge Camp and Tumwater Camp offer nearby backcountry camping. Ranger station and supplies at Stehekin Landing, 11 miles down-valley.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this trail too steep for my fitness level?

600 feet over 1.2 miles is steep but achievable if you're comfortable on moderate climbs. Pace yourself, take breaks, and use trekking poles. Most hikers report it's doable with preparation.

Are there bears? What's the risk?

Do I need a permit for a day hike?

How long does this actually take?

Is the lake worth the climb?

What's the loop option like?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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