Lake Valhalla Backcountry Camping

Lake Valhalla offers backcountry tent camping with several primitive campsites located right next to the alpine lake. These sites provide beautiful lakeside views in a peaceful setting. The camping is rustic with no developed facilities, making it ideal for backpackers seeking a serene wilderness experience. Sites are first-come, first-served, and visitors should be prepared for alpine conditions, which may include snow patches even during summer months.

Lake Valhalla is accessed via a hike along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). The trail to the lake is approximately 4 miles one-way over somewhat rocky terrain. Hikers should be prepared for variable conditions, including small patches of snow depending on the season. The trailhead is located near Stevens Pass in the Central Cascades of Washington. Bring appropriate hiking gear and allow several hours for the journey to reach this backcountry destination.

The primary trail serving Lake Valhalla is the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), which passes directly by the lake. This section of the PCT offers gorgeous alpine scenery and connects to other regional trails in the Stevens Pass area. The hike to Lake Valhalla itself is a moderately challenging 4+ mile trek (one-way) featuring rocky sections and occasional snow patches. For those staying at the lake, there are opportunities for shorter day hikes around the lake perimeter and to nearby viewpoints offering spectacular mountain vistas.