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Pyramid Lake Trail
The Pyramid Lake Trail is a short day hike that nicely showcases the diverse forest and lake ecosystems found in North Cascades' lower elevations.
Plan Around Pyramid Lake Trail
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Pyramid Lake Trail Details
The Pyramid Lake Trail is a short day hike that nicely showcases the diverse forest and lake ecosystems found in North Cascades' lower elevations. The trail begins in an evergreen forest that has managed to survive multiple forest fires due to its large population of Douglas fir and lodgepole pine, both of which are well adapted to surviving the flames. There are some steep switchbacks as the trail climbs, and about halfway up it crosses a small, cold stream surrounded by gigantic ancient cedars and the first signs of the wet, boggy area surrounding the lake. Pyramid Lake is small, and was formed by a landslide thousands of years ago. Now, having been untouched by humans for centuries, it is a wonderful example of a bog ecosystem, and is home to countless species of plants and insects. Fascinating residents include the carnivorous plant, sundew, and the toxic aquatic rough-skinned newt. To protect this habitat, camping is not permitted on this trail. The trailhead is just east of Lake Gorge on State Route 20, at milepost 126.8.
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
4.2 miles
Estimated time
2.25 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Pyramid Lake Trail
Compare nearby parks around Pyramid Lake Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Pyramid Lake Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Pyramid Lake Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.5 mi away
Gorge Lake
Gorge Lake is the southernmost of three dam-controlled lakes on the Skagit River that were developed by the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project.
0.5 mi away
Gorge Lake Campground
Gorge Lake Campground has six free first-come, first-served primitive tent sites.
0.5 mi away
Sourdough/Pierce Mountain Trail
The climb up Sourdough Mountain is one of the most challenging and rewarding day hikes in North Cascades National Park.
0.6 mi away
Stetattle Creek Trail
This seldom-used trail is perfect for hikers wanting an adventurous, challenging day hike.
0.7 mi away
Diablo Dam
Diablo Dam is one of the dams created by the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project, and was once the tallest dam in the world.
