Lower Lena Lake

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Lower Lena Lake

Roundtrip Miles: 7.2

Elevation Gain (feet): 1300

Best Month(s): July

Hikeable: June-October

Trailhead Coordinates: 47.5997, -123.1512

Pass: NW Forest

Features: wildflowers, mountain views, campsites, waterfalls, old growth, lake

Water: Water from the lake is easily accessible from certain points for you to collect and filter

Summary: While the hike to Lower Lena Lake is uphill the entire way there, it’s a steady, not-terribly steep incline with some meandering switchbacks to ease the way and a beautiful mountain lake as the reward for your moderate effort. Start your hike as early as you dare to avoid the crowds and ensure yourself a parking space. The heat of the day in summer also starts to get to be too much around noon so if you’re headed back down the trail by then you’ll thank yourself. There is an overlook where you can lay on the rocks in the shade or sun and take in the lake before you get down closer to the water. The lake is gorgeous and you can camp up here right next to the lake at several unimproved sites if you choose to bring backpacking gear. It’s very popular though so weekend campers may have some competition for sites. There are a few spots for the pups to easily access the water for a swim if they so desire.

Post-hike Food Stop:

  1. Hama Hama Oyster Saloon* (Lilliwaup): the smoked salmon chowder was delicious but the crab cakes were mediocre compared to what I can make at home; if you like oysters, you should probably just get those
  2. El Puerto de Angeles (Hoodsport): Enchiladas with rice and beans, margarita