Deadwood Lakes Trail Map and Hike Info

Looking for an easy, short, quiet hike far far away from Mount Rainier’s summertime traffic? The Deadwood Lakes trail is a hidden gem for anyone yearning to connect with Mother Nature in peace and solitude.

Not an Official Trail, But Still a Perfect Dayhike

My father introduced this hike to me in my teens, as he discovered it in the 1969 edition of “50 Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park.” To my knowledge, this hike has not appeared in guidebooks since, making it a little-known, seldom-traveled trail.

The trail to Deadwood Lakes is not officially maintained, but enough fisherman and Mount Rainier National Park purists have discovered its wonders that it is useable once you find it.

Trailhead – Start at Chinook Pass Parking Lot

Just east of the official Chinook Pass entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, you’ll find Chinook Pass upper parking lot. Easy access to the Pacific Crest Trail, this is the beginning of your journey.

Follow the trailhead east, parallel to SR 410, for about 0.4 miles.

The Trickiest Part – Finding the Path Heading Up

The hardest part of getting to the Deadwood Lakes is finding the trail that heads up the mountain. At times, I’ve seen branches laid across the trail but not always. You are looking for areas of obvious wear that would indicate the path. Once you find it, you’ll find it fairly simple to follow, making your way to the ridge saddle above (about 0.2 miles).

The Saddle – Take Time to Enjoy the View

For some, your hike can end right here and you’ll be perfectly satisfied. After getting some exercise and fresh air, it’s a great place to enjoy some water, maybe some cheese and crackers if you’ve planned ahead, and sit back and take in the gorgeous views. The saddle has plenty of comfortable rocks that Mother Nature placed for your lounging enjoyment. To the south, you’ll gaze upon Naches Peak and the great valley that parallels the highway. The view of serene lakes and bold peaks (yes, even Mount Rainier) make this a particular idyllic setting. And seriously…don’t forget the cheese and crackers.

From the Saddle to the Lakes

If you decide to continue on down to the lakes (you overachiever you) you’ll pass a sign telling you that you’re now in Mount Rainier National Park. Feast on the wild blueberries and huckleberries along the trail if they’re in season. The trail downward can be a bit steep in places, with plenty of overlooks to gawk at the alpine lakes below you.

This area is home to plenty of wildlife, including mountain goat, fox and bear, but elk is king of these parts. You’re likely to see signs of their presence in the form of scat or prints.

At the Lakes

Fishermen particularly love these lakes, and are usually equipped to deal with the marshy conditions that surround them. You’ll see plenty of wildflowers in the bogs and meadows that surround the lakes. Word of caution: it’s hard to get to lake’s edge in June and July without getting your feet wet.

Enjoy this Mount Rainier National Park hike.