Trail

Hozomeen Lake Trail

Trail
A clear blue lake in front on forested shores and a mountain.

Tackle 3.6 miles one-way into North Cascades backcountry to reach Hozomeen Lake, a clear alpine water beneath Hozomeen Mountain. Moderate difficulty makes this accessible to solid hikers seeking swimming, mountain views, and wildlife (common loons call across the lake). The trail rewards effort with solitude and silence—few day hikers push this far from the campground. Start early and bring layers for altitude.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
3.6
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Estimated Time
3–4 hours round-trip depending on fitness and breaks. Based on 3.6 miles one-way at moderate pace.

Trail profile

Distance Miles
3.6
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Estimated Time
3–4 hours round-trip depending on fitness and breaks. Based on 3.6 miles one-way at moderate pace.
Trail Features
  • Alpine lake
  • Mountain views (Hozomeen Mountain)
  • Clear water for swimming
  • Wildlife (loons)
Trail Highlights
Clear alpine lake in Cascades backcountry with swimming opportunities, common loons calling, and mountain views. Solitude and silence—few crowds on backcountry access like this.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Upper Loop of Hozomeen Campground
Shuttle Required
0

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
No permits required for day hiking. Backcountry camping requires separate permit process.
Fees
No entrance fee for North Cascades National Park. America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance at all federal recreation sites if you visit multiple parks.
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Typically limited services from October through late May. Trail may be impassable due to snow and weather outside the operational season.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
Hozomeen Lake at trail's end. Water should be filtered before drinking. No water sources noted along the trail.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Wildlife (bears in the area—100+ yard minimum distance)
  • Cold alpine lake water
  • Weather exposure at altitude
  • Backcountry terrain
Hazard Details
North Cascades wildlife includes bears (maintain 100+ yards distance) and other wildlife (25+ yards). Hozomeen Lake water is cold—never swim alone and acclimate carefully. Weather changes rapidly at elevation. Trail is moderate but backcountry—stay on-trail and alert.
Best Season
Late May – September (North Cascades National Park operational season with full services)
Best Time To Visit
Late May through September when North Cascades National Park is fully operational. Start by 6:00 AM to secure trailhead parking and avoid afternoon weather swings at altitude.
Tips Advice
  • Carry 2L water minimum despite lake access—no on-trail water sources noted, so don't rely on filtering at the lake only.
  • Bring layers. Cascades weather shifts rapidly at elevation—sun to clouds to wind in minutes.
  • Make noise on the trail (talk or use a whistle). Bears are in the area; keep 100+ yards distance. Other wildlife requires 25+ yards.
  • Tighten your boots before you start. Backcountry trails often have roots and loose terrain.
  • If swimming, water is cold. Never go alone. Wade in slowly to acclimate.

More details

Park Area
Ross Lake National Recreation Area, North Cascades National Park
Dogs Allowed
Leashed dogs allowed
Map Recommended
1
Snow Dates
Typically impassable November through May due to snow and weather. Dates vary year-to-year.
Insider Tips
  • The trailhead is at the Upper Loop of Hozomeen Campground—confirm the turn-off to avoid hiking the wrong direction.
  • Listen for loons but don't approach; maintain 25+ yards distance minimum.
  • Morning hikes yield calmer lake water and clearer mountain views of Hozomeen peak.
  • Account for the full 7+ mile round-trip commitment—no food or resupply once you leave the campground.
Family Friendly Notes
Moderate difficulty suitable for school-age children with hiking experience. Cold lake water—always supervise children near water and never allow unsupervised swimming. Leashed dogs allowed; keep control around wildlife and loons.
Nearby Facilities
Hozomeen Campground (at trailhead). North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem (seasonal hours). Nearest town/resupply not specified in park data.
Review Summary
Backcountry hikers appreciate the pristine alpine lake and relative solitude, though the 3.6-mile one-way distance and cold water temperature filter casual walkers. Those seeking backcountry access without major technical scrambling report strong satisfaction. Elevation gain and exact trail surface vary by season.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail safe to hike alone?

Mostly yes. Stay alert for wildlife, carry a map, and tell someone your plans. Limited cell service means no emergency comms—be self-sufficient. Make noise for bears and stay on-trail.

Can I swim in Hozomeen Lake?

Yes. Water is cold and clear. Never swim alone, wear a water-resistant layer if cold-sensitive, and test depth before diving. Acclimate gradually to the temperature.

How fit do I need to be?

Moderate fitness. 3.6 miles one-way is manageable for most hikers with regular activity. If you comfortably hike 5+ miles, you'll handle this. The return descent can tire legs.

Do I need special gear?

Standard day-pack essentials: 2L water, topographic map, layers, and sun protection. Trekking poles help on the descent. No rope, crampons, or technical gear required.

Are permits required?

No. Day hiking is free. Backcountry camping requires a separate permit application (not covered here).

Can I bring my dog?

Yes. Dogs must be leashed at all times. Don't let them approach loons or harass wildlife. Cold lake water is dangerous for pets—watch them carefully near water.

What's the biggest mistake hikers make on this trail?

Underestimating round-trip time and getting caught returning in poor light or darkness. Start by 6:00 AM to finish with daylight buffer. The 3.6-mile one-way distance adds up fast.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.