A roughly 4-mile hike along the Pacific Crest Trail leads to Lake Valhalla, an alpine lake sitting in open terrain within Wenatchee National Forest. Fires are not permitted, so layers matter. Campsites sit close to the water's edge, and the lake is cold enough that swimming takes some commitment. Mosquitoes are heavy at night, so bug spray is worth packing. This site works best for backpackers comfortable with a no-fire environment who want direct camping near Wenatchee National Forest and lake access in one stop. Toilets and picnic tables are on-site; pets are allowed.
Description
The Smith Brook trail starts off with several switchbacks, then continues up to Union Gap where it meets the Pacific Crest Trail. Turn south (left) at Union Gap and continue hiking until you reach the gap between Mount Lichtenberg and McCausland, where you get a first glimpse of Lake Valhalla.
Just before reaching the gap, a boot trail follows the ridge up to an old lookout site at Mount McCausland. Less then a half a mile and 600 feet of climbing and you will reach the top, where you will have a great view of Glacier Peak to the north. There are lots of huckleberries in the meadows along this trail.
Pass over the gap and descend to Lake Valhalla. There are a number of overnight campsites and a couple of backcountry toilets at the lake, although campfires are not permitted. There is a very pleasant sandy beach at the lake as well, which is perfect for lunch and relaxing in the summer.
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 & DirectionsLake Valhalla Backcountry Camping is located in Washington near Skykomish
Coordinates
47.79141042 N
121.10296036 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Cabin
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Pets
Drive Time
- 1 hr 4 min from Wenatchee, WA
- 1 hr 44 min from Seattle, WA
- 1 hr 56 min from Mount Vernon, WA
- 2 hrs 35 min from Bremerton, WA










