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Melakwa Lakes via Denny Creek Trail

North Bend, Washington

4.6/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

8.84 miles

Elevation Gain

2615 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Scott Kranz

Start off with a quick glimpse of Denny Creek’s Waterfalls, and once you pass them, expect for the crowd to dissipate. Once you reach Melakwa, get your shot of Chair and Kaleetan Peaks’ reflections in the lake.

This hike has it all: old-growth forests, rivers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, views, peaks, and so on. The hike starts from near Denny Creek Campground in between the separate I-90 viaducts. Almost immediately, you will cross over a walk bridge over Denny Creek's waterfalls, and then eventually under the westbound I-90 viaduct, which, from the old-growth forest underneath, is a cool, almost-post-apocalyptic site. Keep following the trail, which passes over Denny Creek in several places. After a few miles, you'll have great views of Keekwulee falls. After some elevation gain, at about 4 miles into the hike, you'll make it to Hemlock pass, which is the starting point for some downhill hiking until you reach lower Melakwa Lake.

Once at the lake, you have the option to travel to the north end of the lake which will give you access to the second upper Melakwa lake. Both lakes provides great views of Kaleetan Peak and Chair Peak.

Once you're ready to head back, just return on the trail the way you came.

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Features

Hiking
Bathrooms
Forest
Lake
River
Scenic
Waterfall

Melakwa Lakes via Denny Creek Trail Reviews

I was having a rough week and wanted some nature therapy so I picked this one from my bucket list. Definitely was not disappointed! In 9 miles you get magical views of the forest, waterfalls, meadows, boulders, and a beautiful lake at the end! Also did this one by myself (like a big girl) so I had plenty of time to reflect and by the end of the hike I felt very refreshed (and hungry). Definitely recommend waterproof hiking boots for this one because you pretty much have to walk through the creek and a lot of rocky paths which can be harsh on your feet if you don't have the right support!

Done this hike a few times...love the varying scenery and the lake conditions are always different!

Did this as a backpacking trip on a rainy September weekend and it was great. Even on the rainy weekend the sites were filled up by the evening that are situated around the lake. There are only a few as some are in restoration. Plenty to explore as you can hike mostly all the way around Melakwa Lake and Upper Melakwa Lake.

Good steep hike with lots of variety, including a large falls and natural waterslides on the way to the lakes.

Accidentally turned this into a very long day hike. Set out to do a quick out and back 3 mile trip to Denny Creek, the adventuring spirit lead us all the way to Melakwa Lake which is beautiful and well worth the sweat and energy expended. Pack plenty of water and snacks. There are a number of overnighters at the lake and continuing beyond. With the elevation changes it is definitely a hard day hike, that is well worth it,

Enjoyable hike. Some exposed spots, so on hot days make sure to bring plenty of water for yourself and any four-legged buddies.

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Kaleetan Lake via Denny Creek Trail

Kaleetan Peak

Franklin Falls via Wagon Road Trail

Snowshoe to Franklin Falls

Lodge Lake via PCT

Ski Tour or Snowshoe Kendall Knob