Hidden Lake

Tucked under tall pines in a nook above Lake Wenatchee, Hidden Lake is aptly named. Just a 1.2-mile round trip, it is a perfect trail for young budding adventurers and anyone looking for a short afternoon stroll from Glacier View Campground. The main trailhead is just under a mile from Glacier View, but a steeper and considerably less traveled trail is available from the campground as well, so the hike can be made into a loop if desired.

From the main trailhead, start hiking along a wide, flat trail through towering old-growth cedars. After approximately a quarter mile, the trees thin enough for fleeting glimpses of Dirtyface Peak in the distance and sparkling Lake Wenatchee down below. From here the trail gains elevation gradually until it reaches Hidden Lake’s outlet stream, which winds through a grove of ponderosa pines and down the ridge.

Cross the creek on a log bridge and make your way to one of several nice lounging spots along the shore. If you are here in spring or early summer, you will be treated to the sound of several small waterfalls cascading into the lake from the slopes of Nason Ridge. This area is also part of the Great Washington State Birding Trail, so bring the binoculars and keep your ears open for music from a wide variety of songbirds.