Pine and Cedar Lakes

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Image for Pine and Cedar Lakes — Brian Bates

About

Summary

This trail is possibly the toughest 1 - 2 mile uphill stretch in the Chuckanuts, but the views are rewarding.

Recommended by

Written by

Brian Bates

Distance

5.0 miles

Destination Distance From Downtown

4.7 miles

Difficulty

4 of 5 diamonds

Time To Complete

3 hours

2-4 hours

Seasonality

All Seasons

Dog Friendly

On Leash Only

Fees Permits

Yes

Discover Pass required for parking

Land Website

Pine and Cedar Lakes

Review

Intro

Let's start off by saying the lakes are fantastic at the top, and well worth the hike. It is also one of the few locations in the Chuckanuts that allows camping! Some people get discouraged by the 1.7 miles of steep uphill at the start, but it's just that - only 1.7 miles. Not too bad. However, it is pretty steep for running standards, so typically the runners who come to Pine and Cedar Lakes are looking for a workout, not a casual run.

What Makes It Great

From the trailhead, head uphill for almost 2 miles. At the top, you meet up with the Hemlock trail. Taking a right, to the West, will send you down the Chuckanuts. Instead, take the left, and follow Hemlock until you reach the first of the lakes (Cedar) after a little more than a half mile. It's roughly 2.5 miles from trailhead to lake.

Who is Going to Love It

It's pretty steep, so this is going to be for someone who is looking for a workout!

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

A Discover Pass is required. From Bellingham, begin to head south on Chuckanut Drive. Right before the North Chuckanut Mountain Trailhead, take the left on Old Samish Road. Follow Old Samish Road for roughly 2 miles: the Pine and Cedar Lakes Trailhead will be on your right.

These lakes are one of the few you may camp at in the Chuckanuts. There are 4 campsites available among the two lakes.

View Bellingham

Hiking