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Lila Lake
Elevation Gain: 2,800 ft
Roundtrip Distance: 11 miles
Northwest Forest Pass
Getting there: The climb to Lila Lake begins at the Rachel Lake trailhead - that is roughly an hour and a half (74.5 miles) from Seattle Pacific University via I-90E, driving a little beyond Snoqualmie Pass. Routing yourself with google maps to the Rachel Lake Trailhead will bring you to the correct parking lot to start your adventure but be prepared to lose service and paved roads as you enter the Alpine Wilderness area after Lake Kachess Campground.
Trailhead: This trail requires a Northwest Forest Pass, however there is a self-issue day pass station when you arrive at the trailhead. Be sure to bring at least five dollars in cash or in loose change around your car to place in the envelope. There is a restroom at the trailhead and at Rachel Lake so drink coffee accordingly.
On the trail: The first two and half miles of the Rachel Lake trail are relatively flat, weaving gradually through old growth forest along the Box Canyon stream, before the trail undergoes an entire personality change. The last mile to the lake becomes a heavily rooted and steep ascent where you gain a majority of your elevation. There aren’t major turns or forks on the road, it is pretty much straight forward until you reach Rachel Lake. After stopping off at Rachel Lake, head back to the path marked by the signage “Trail” until you reach the junction for Rampart Lakes and Lila Lake. Take the right turn for Lila Lake until you arrive at an unmarked junction and then continue right for a steady descent to Lila Lake.
ORP Suggestion: Due to the rewarding views and close proximity to Seattle, Lila Lake and Rachel Lake are highly recommended for overnight backpacking trips to the Snoqualmie region. Rachel Lake has several cleared areas for camping and toilets. Lila Lake is less populated with more options for finding your own rustic camp spot, however it does not offer any formal toilet systems. Both Lila Lake and Rachel Lake can be a very popular day hikes and camping destinations, so hit the roads early to carve out your territory!