Seattle: Shoe Lake
This 13.2-mile PCT out-and-back is resplendent with mountain scenery, including big panoramas, heaps of wildlife, and a blissfully blue alpine lake.
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
Trail Facts
- Distance: 10.6
Waypoints
SHO001
Location: 46.6432838439941, -121.378845214844
Hike S across footbridge; trail climbs gently past huckleberries
SHO002
Location: 46.6352005004883, -121.377006530762
Proceed to sharp switchback while searching for elk, which often congregate here in the wee hours
SHO003
Location: 46.6282653808594, -121.375228881836
Pass Ginnette Lake; primitive campsites
SHO004
Location: 46.6255760192871, -121.372398376465
Turn R @ 3-way, staying on signed PCT
SHO005
Location: 46.6176681518555, -121.386672973633
Go L @ 3-way
SHO006
Location: 46.6097221374512, -121.403816223145
Views of Mt. Rainier grow bigger while trail ascends Hogback Ridge, where thermals attract surfing raptors
SHO007
Location: 46.6063919067383, -121.402366638184
Saddle: Jaw-dropping views of Hogback and Round Mtns. and Rimrock Lake; continue straight
SHO008
Location: 46.6000022888184, -121.403297424316
Trail follows ridgeline; colorful wildflowers blanket each side
SHO009
Location: 46.5928916931152, -121.399459838867
Ascend 1/8 mi. over rocky, treeless terrain to col; look for mountain goats before dropping into Shoe Lake Basin
SHO010
Location: 46.5922317504883, -121.400108337402
Stay straight on PCT @ 3-way, staying on ridge above shoe-shaped lake. Side trip: Spur leads L to sapphire-blue lake
SHO011
Location: 46.5869064331055, -121.40438079834
Trail skirts rim above lake, then moves onto a talus field with must-take-photo panoramas of the Cascades.