Melakwa Lake a Visual Feast Perfect for Early October

Melakwa Lake is one of the prettiest hikes along the I-90 corridor west of Snoqualmie Pass and late fall is an ideal time to experience the beauty of this transitional season. Earlier in the season biting insects can render this hike less than pleasant – in fact, Melakwa translates to 'mosquito' in the Chinook jargon. Another reason to hike soon: the bridge that used to cross Denny Creek is gone and a makeshift bridge is in place. Once heavy fall rains begin the makeshift bridge may wash away and crossing the creek can be hazardous in high water. As of this writing it is a mere hop, skip and jump.

The hike begins on the Denny Creek trail and eventually enters the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The first stretch of the trail is through old hemlock forest and crosses under I-90, adding a surrealistic touch. In a little over a mile the trail crosses Denny Creek. In the summer the Denny Creek bathing rocks are a family delight when the creek level is low - the smooth rocks provide natural slides for youngsters or anyone else who wants to frolic in the water.

From Denny Creek the trail begins to climb in earnest, switchbacking through meadows and forested pockets with views of Keekwulee Falls, Snowshoe Falls and adjoining ridges. In September many wildflowers had gone to seed though there were still asters, columbine, yarrow, pearly everlasting in bloom. Because the snow was so late to melt this year, even early-season thimbleberry blossoms were still blooming at higher elevations.

Cross the creek again on a footlog or ford -- your choice depending on water level. Continue climbing through forest and traverse a boulder field with views before the final, steep switchbacks culminate at forested Hemlock Pass.

At Hemlock Pass turn right and continue on the trail with ups and downs to a signed trail junction (you will first pass an old trail sign that is so weathered it is difficult to read). The trail to the left descends to lower Toscohatchie Lake (the junction is signed). Turn right; uphill and you’ll soon be at Melakwa Lake before you can say Toscohatchie amidst stunning views.

Which way to go? The lakeshore is a scenic turnaround with views, campsites and reflections on the lake when the water is still. You can also extend the hike by crossing the outlet stream on a logjam and picking up a bootpath that follows the lakeshore around to upper Melakwa Lake. There you will find more solitude in addition to good views of the enigmatic Kaleetan Peak, Chair Peak, other Snoqualmie peaks and a variety of bootpaths to explore.  

Some routes lead to Kaleetan Peak but this peak is not for the faint of heart or inexperienced hikers. Kaleetan is a peak that should only be considered by those with mountaineering experience and route-finding skills.

Make time for the upper lake - find a rocky perch and enjoy the views. Stroll the lakeshore, note the boulders come to rest in a variety of colors and textures. The reflections in the upper lake of peaks above and around the lakeshore defy verbal description.

Don’t forget to bring a camera.

Getting there: Head east on I-90 to Exit No. 47 signed “Denny Creek”, cross I-90 and turn right, pass under the freeway and continue toward Denny Creek campground (about 3 miles) and a little past the campground turn left on a spur signed “Denny Creek/Franklin Falls” and proceed to the end of the spur to trailhead parking and facilities. A Northwest Forest Pass is required. You are also required to fill out a permit to enter the Alpine Lakes Wilderness at the trailhead (permits are available at the trailhead).

Trail data:  The hike is about 9 miles round trip with approximately 2,300 feet gain. The map is Green Trails No. 207 Snoqualmie Pass. For additional information, rules, regulations and trail conditions call Mount Baker National Forest (North Bend) at 425-888-1421.