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ForestMatters, LLC

Mirror Lake Trail

Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
4.5 mi
Elevation Gain
900 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through October
Est. Time
2.5-3.5 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Calm reflective lake surface in a Cascade forest setting
  • Summer wildflowers on the meadow approach
  • Quieter alternative to the busier Alpine Lakes Wilderness trails
  • Dog-friendly trail outside the wilderness boundary
  • Accessible from Snoqualmie Pass without a wilderness permit
lakewildflowers

Mirror Lake in Snoqualmie National Forest offers a quieter alpine lake experience near Snoqualmie Pass without the permit requirements and dog prohibition of the nearby Alpine Lakes Wilderness trails. The 4.5-mile round trip gains 900 feet through Cascade forest and meadow to a reflective lake that earns its name on still mornings.

For hikers who want a lake destination near Snoqualmie Pass but prefer a calmer, permit-free experience, Mirror Lake is a consistent recommendation. The lake itself is less dramatic than Snow Lake but the surroundings are pleasant and the solitude is substantially better.

The Route

The trail begins from a Snoqualmie Pass trailhead and climbs steadily through dense Pacific Northwest forest. Wildflower meadows appear in the upper approach as the trail nears the lake basin. The lake is reached at 2.25 miles with views of surrounding Cascade ridgelines.

The lake surface is still most mornings before afternoon winds develop. Return on the same trail.

What to Expect

The trail receives a fraction of the traffic of Snow Lake and the other heavily promoted Alpine Lakes destinations. Even on summer weekends, solitude is more accessible here than at the busier trailheads. The lake is cold and clear; the basin is a good lunch or rest destination before returning.

Dogs are allowed on leash. This is a meaningful distinction in an area where many popular trails prohibit dogs.

Nearby

Snoqualmie Pass provides limited services at the ski resort. North Bend, about 20 miles west on I-90, has full services including restaurants and outdoor shops. The Hyak area on the eastern side of the pass has additional trail access within the forest.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The moderate rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Snoqualmie National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Mirror Lake Trailhead off WA-906 near Snoqualmie Pass. Gravel lot with room for 8 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Snoqualmie National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a permit required for Mirror Lake?
No. Mirror Lake is outside the Alpine Lakes Wilderness permit system, making it one of the simpler nearby lake destinations. A Northwest Forest Pass may be required for parking; verify with the Snoqualmie Ranger District as of 2026.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs are allowed at Mirror Lake because the trail is outside the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, where dogs are prohibited.
When is the trail accessible?
Typically July through October. The trail can have snow lingering into July in heavy snow years.
How does this compare to Snow Lake?
Mirror Lake is quieter, requires no permit, and allows dogs, but is less dramatic visually than Snow Lake. It is an excellent choice for hikers who want a lake experience without Snow Lake's crowds.