This 14 mile hike combines three different trails (the Cathedral Pass Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Deception Pass Trail) to form a loop through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Along the way you’ll see Nosh Nosh Wahtum (lake), Cathedral Rock, Hyas Lake, and many spectacular mountain vistas. The loop is perfect for a long day hike or trail run, but can also be overnighted. Options to extend the hike are plentiful. Great side trips include Tuck and Robin Lakes, Marmot and Jade Lakes, or Peggy’s Pond and Mount Daniel.
The trailhead for the loop is located at the end of the long gravel Cle Elum Valley Road. Park and follow the Cathedral Pass Trail as it crosses the Cle Elum River then gradually ascends into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
The first attraction is the small lake, Nosh Nosh Wahtum. It’s a perfect spot to take a break, and perhaps even have a swim.
Continuing onward you’ll pass a few more small ponds and have a stunning view of Cathedral Rock ahead. Continue until reaching the signed junction with the Pacific Crest Trail. Turn right.
Follow the PCT as it descends, and enjoy the fantastic views. There is a stream crossing that isn’t recommended for stock, and can potentially be difficult for hikers during extremely high water levels. Otherwise, the crossing is pretty straightforward.
The trail enters the forest and then arrives at Deception Pass. This pass is a bit anticlimactic with no views. At the 4 way junction here turn right and follow the Deception Pass Trail downhill. A short distance later is the side trail that leads to Tuck and Robin Lakes, stay straight unless adding on this side trip.
The Deception Pass Trail continues to descend until you reach Hyas Lake. This large lake is quite nice, with many campsites and views across the valley toward Cathedral Rock and Mount Daniel, where you just were.
Continue along the easy trail until arriving back at the trailhead where the loop concludes.
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