The lake is surrounded by high cliffs with waterfalls cascading down to the lake. In the fall, the gold's and reds of the changing shrubs and trees are spectacular.

General Information: The lake is surrounded by high cliffs with waterfalls cascading down to the lake. In the fall, the gold's and reds of the changing shrubs and trees are spectacular. The walk to the lake takes only 20 minutes and is a refreshing break for those driving the North Cascade Highway. There are cutthroat trout in the lake and fishing is allowed (WA state license is required and all state game laws apply.)

This is an easy, paved trail with no elevation gain. The trail leaves the parking lot and contours around a side hill to reach the north end of Rainy Lake where the trail ends at a paved picnic spot with benches. This trail gets heavy use. Visitors should be careful to stay on the trial to avoid damaging fragile areas.

Directions: From Winthrop, Drive Highway 20 west to Rainy Pass. Park in the south parking lot.

Elevation: 5,000 feet

Elevation Gain: 0 feet

Distance: 0.9 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Visitor Information

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