Warm Lake

Warm Lake is a beautiful small lake nestled near Gilbert Peak (8,182’) in the Goat Rocks Wilderness. It is accessed by following the South Fork Tieton Trail, then turning onto an unofficial but obvious user trail. There is some great camping around the lake, and it also serves as a great place to basecamp for anyone looking to climb Gilbert Peak.

Begin from Conrad Meadows Trailhead. You’ll pass through some private property then enter into the Goat Rocks Wilderness. The trail remains near a stream and fairly flat. At an unmarked junction stay left, then begin climbing up to Surprise Lake. Continue until the next unmarked junction. Turn left and continue climbing.

As you top out you’ll come to an unmarked 4 way junction. Turn left onto the use trail. This trail leads to Warm Lake. While it is an obvious path most of the way, it is easy to lose in spots so be sure to keep an eye out.

You’ll soon arrive at Warm Lake. There are a handful of great campsites surrounding the lake, a perfect place to spend the night. Although the water isn’t quite as warm as the name implies, it is still well worth a going for a quick swim!

Hikers looking to summit Gilbert Peak can gain the southeast ridge from near the lake.

After enjoying your time at the lake return the way you came, or continue straight at the 4 way junction to take an alternate route back utilizing the northern loop portion of the South Fork Tieton Trail.