Clara and Marion Lakes

November 9, 2023 |

Quick Facts:

Location: Mission Ridge, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Land Agency: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Roundtrip: 3.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 960 feet

Green Trails Map: Wenatchee/ Mission Ridge, WA- No 211S

Access: Follow US 2 to Wenatchee turning south onto SR 285 and continuing for 4.5 miles until it turns east to cross the Columbia River into East Wenatchee. Do not cross bridge; continue straight on Mission Street which becomes Squilchuck Road. Continue for 11.8 miles to road’s end at Mission Ridge Ski Area. Trailhead is located near entrance to ski area parking lot.

Contact: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Good to Know: kid-friendly, dog-friendly, western larches; snowshoeing

These two little larch lined lakes tucked within basaltic slopes high on Mission Ridge make for an excellent late season larch viewing hike. They are also a wonderful family-friendly snowshoeing destination in winter. The only motor-free trails on Mission Ridge—savor the peace along with the beauty.

Follow the Squilchuck Trail uphill into a mature forest of Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. Squilchuck is derived from the Chinook jargon meaning “muddy waters.” After a short but fairly steep start, come to a junction with the Pipeline Trail, also a popular snowshoe route. Continue straight ascending through thick cool forest. There are plenty of impressive big western larches along the way. The grade eases near a crossing of Lake Creek. A short distance farther, reach a signed junction. The trail left leads to the little lakes; take it.

Immediately enter a beautiful little basin flanked by giant larches and basaltic spires, sculptures and pyramids—and little Clara Lake looking more like a frozen meadow this time of the year. Continue over a slight rise to reach tiny Marion Lake. Set within equally pretty surroundings, enjoy the peace and quiet. Just over the ridge is the bustling Mission Ridge Ski Area. You’d never know it from where you are tucked in a pocket wilderness feeling miles removed from civilization.

For more information on this hike and many others in the Wenatchee-Leavenworth area, pick up a copy of my best-selling Day Hiking Central Cascades 2nd edition (Mountaineers Books)