Blue Lake, North Cascades, Washington, USA

Phillip West

This photo is copyrighted by the author.
Thank you for respecting the rights and efforts of our photographers. Please contact the author for further information.

USA Blue Lake, North Cascades, Washington

Please log in or sign up for free to see the GPS coordinates & weather for this photo spot

A popular climbing approach to Liberty Bell and the Early Winters Spires, Blue Lake is a fine destination. The lake is well represented by its name, being a deep blue to turquoise blue in color.

Photography Tips

Arguably the best time to visit is early October. The lighting is better than in mid-summer, and fall brings on an incredible tapestry of color, especially in early October when the larch trees are at their brightest gold.

Travel Information

About a three and a half hour drive from Seattle, take I-5 north, then highway 20 east to the parking lot a few miles beyond Rainy Pass, but before Washington Pass (the drive is beautiful too). The hike is about 4 miles (~6.5 kilometers) with 1000 feet (~300 meters) of elevation gain.

Spot Type Outdoor

Crowd Factor Just a few people

Best Timing Fall

Sunrise & Sunset 07:50 - 16:12 | current local time: 09:40

Photo Themes autumn color fall Lake lakes larches Mountains

Locations North Cascades Cascade Loop Highway Washington Blue Lake Liberty Bell Early Winters Spires

Get the exact geo-position for this spot

Log in to see the GPS coordinates, sun directions, and the map for this photo spot. Or simply bookmark it along with other spots to plan your next trip.