Lake Valhalla via Smithbrook Trail

Leavenworth, Washington

4.7/5

based on 3 reviews

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Distance

6.77 miles

Elevation Gain

1566.27 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jason Horstman

Lake Valhalla via Smithbrook Trail is a moderate almost 7-mile hike along a relatively smooth trail to astounding lakeside views of Lichtenberg Mountain.

The Smithbrook trail starts off with several switchbacks, then continues up to Union Gap where it meets the Pacific Crest Trail. Turn south (left) at Union Gap and continue hiking until you reach the gap between Mount Lichtenberg and McCausland, where you get a first glimpse of Lake Valhalla.

Just before reaching the gap, a boot trail follows the ridge up to an old lookout site at Mount McCausland. Less then a half a mile and 600 feet of climbing and you will reach the top, where you will have a great view of Glacier Peak to the north. There are lots of huckleberries in the meadows along this trail.

Pass over the gap and descend to Lake Valhalla. There are a number of overnight campsites and a couple of backcountry toilets at the lake, although campfires are not permitted. There is a very pleasant sandy beach at the lake as well, which is perfect for lunch and relaxing in the summer.

This is also a great hike to see fall colors.

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Lake Valhalla via Smithbrook Trail Reviews

Rachel Partin

Wanderer

Lake Valhalla via Smithbrook Trail

08/08/16

Went on a Sunday late morning, not a lot of traffic (maybe 10 groups in all) for that day of the week. Challenging hike without being difficult, my 14yr old terrier kept up just fine. Beautiful scenery at the lake and lots of awesome mosses, lichens and amphibian life in the meadow. Worth the drive, beware of typical gold bar traffic on the way back if you're heading out around 3.

5.0

Kelby S

Wanderer

Lake Valhalla via Smithbrook Trail

06/22/16

Super accessible, easy hike just past the summit of Stevens Pass. Great road in, well maintained trail and great scenery the second half of the hike. Still some snow over the trail the last 1/3 of the hike and around the lake (as of June 20th). Only downfall is it could get really busy as the summer goes on, saw two forest service workers and 3 or 4 groups on a Monday afternoon.

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Lake Valhalla via Smithbrook Trail

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Lake Valhalla via Smithbrook Trail Reviews

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Nearby

Hike to the Summit of Mt. McCausland

Minotaur Lake

Hike and Snowshoe to Lanham Lake

Skyline Lake Trail

Hike to Josephine Lake

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