Hikers tackling the Deception Pass loop use Hyas Lake as a base, with the trailhead sitting at the edge of Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in Washington. The campsite near Upper Hyas Lake is large enough for a group, with flat tent spots and a small creek nearby for water that requires filtering. Bear and cougar prints have been reported on the trail. Access is hike-in only, and the site is free with pit toilets available. Fish Lake Campground sits close by for those weighing options in the area. Bring a filter and plan for a quiet night in the trees.
Description
The relatively flat hike to this long, shallow lake makes an excellent destination for families with children or an easy overnight camping trip.
Follow the Cle Elum River Trail as it moves through wooded forest and over bubbling streams while surrounded by a bevy of local berries: thimbleberry, bunchberry, mountain ash and huckleberry.
The initial gentle incline flattens out after the first half a mile as you continue through the woods. After one mile, the forest begins to open as the trail nears the lower portion of the main lake.
Listen for birds singing in the forested canopy, as they tend to gravitate toward the lake—this means you’re close. At two miles the lake comes into view. Arriving at the lower shores, you'll find plenty of picnic and camping options. The trail continues to the upper lake to offer incredible views of Cathedral Rock and Mount Daniel, which create a striking contrast to the flat valley holding the lake.
Return by the same route.
There's only one pit toilet, BYOTP, first come first serve. 2 miles in from the trailhead.
Fee Info
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Northwest Forest Pass
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy. Please check with the campground before making a reservation.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHyas Lake is located in Washington near Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
Coordinates
47.5452 N
121.0984 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Hyas Lake needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 56 min from Yakima, WA
- 3 hrs 8 min from Wenatchee, WA
- 3 hrs 10 min from Seattle, WA
- 3 hrs 49 min from Bremerton, WA
