If you’re seeking a short, scenic hike near Seattle, the Talapus and Ollalie Lakes trail offers the perfect balance of a moderate challenge and stunning views. This 6.2-mile trail, located along the Snoqualmie Pass area, provides a fantastic escape into nature without venturing too far from the city.

Trail Overview

The hike to Talapus and Ollalie Lakes is an easy to moderate trek with a total elevation gain of around 1,250 feet. It’s perfect for a day trip, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker. The trail is accessible year-round, though snow can make it trickier in the winter months, especially along the higher sections of the trail. Regardless of the season, the views are rewarding, with scenic lakes, snow-covered peaks, and lush forests making for a peaceful, picturesque hike.

Getting Started

The drive to the trailhead is straightforward, but don’t expect an empty parking lot, especially on weekends. The trailhead is located off Forest Road 9030, a pothole-ridden road, but navigable by any vehicle. On this particular Black Friday, we encountered a decent number of cars, though surprisingly, the trail didn’t feel overcrowded. About 60 cars were parked, but the trail still maintained a sense of solitude, making for a pleasant experience.

Trail to Ollalie Lake

After a short, 1.2-mile walk through a beautiful forest, Ollalie Lake comes into view. We found a few people at the lake, but not too many, so we decided to continue onward to Talapus Lake. Ollalie also has a trail toilet if needed, which is a welcome convenience on longer hikes.

From Ollalie to Talapus Lake

Beyond Ollalie Lake, the trail becomes a bit steeper, and the snow on the ground becomes more noticeable. We added microspikes to our gear for better traction on the icy patches. The hike wasn’t difficult, but the snow-covered terrain did make it more challenging. Despite the sunny weather, the snow on the trees began to melt, falling in large clumps onto our heads. Still, it was a lovely walk through the woods, and we couldn’t help but appreciate the stunning scenery.

After about another 1.8 miles, we reached the entrance to Talapus Lake. It was a beautiful sight, with snow-dusted trees surrounding a frozen lake and snow-capped mountains towering in the background. We tried to find a quieter spot by walking around the lake, but the snow wasn’t packed down enough, and we ended up sinking up to our thighs—definitely not ideal. We retreated to the packed-down trail on the left, where there were some small pull-offs to enjoy a snack and take in the view (and yes, I enjoyed a well-deserved beer break here!).

Heading Back to the Trailhead

After soaking in the views of Talapus Lake, we made our way back down the trail. The sun had warmed the snow, making the trail much slushier than before. We stopped at Ollalie Lake on the way back, as it was an easy-to-reach spot with a lovely view. Since Ollalie is closer to the trailhead, it tends to be a more popular destination for those who want a shorter outing.

Tips for Hiking Talapus and Ollalie Lakes

• Bring extra socks: The trail can get muddy and wet, so having dry socks waiting for you in the car is a real treat after the hike.
• Hike early: Snow tends to soften and become slushier as the day goes on, so starting your hike early helps you avoid these conditions.
• Communicate with your hiking partners: Decide ahead of time if you’re okay with not reaching the lakes if conditions aren’t ideal. Having a flexible plan can help manage expectations and keep everyone safe.
• Check weather and trail conditions: If the weather’s been snowy or rainy, the trail could be icy or muddy. For snow, be prepared with the proper gear like microspikes or traction devices.

Preparing for the Hike

Even for a relatively short hike, it’s important to be well-prepared:

Gear to Pack:

• Microspikes: Essential for traction on icy or snowy trails.
• Trekking Poles: Great for added stability, especially on steep or slippery sections.
• Gloves and Layers: The weather can change quickly, so layering is key. Don’t forget hand warmers for those cold, damp days.
• First Aid Kit and Headlamp: Always be prepared, especially since daylight hours are shorter in the winter.
• Rain Jacket: Even if the weather looks sunny, it’s wise to carry a rain jacket in case conditions change unexpectedly.

Plan for Snow:

• Weather Check: Be aware of snow conditions and plan for icy or slushy trails. Winter weather can change quickly, so keep an eye on forecasts.
• Road Conditions: The trailhead is accessible, but in winter, you may have to park further down the road if snow has piled up. Always check trail reports before heading out.
• Safety: Avalanches are always a risk in mountain areas, so make sure you’re prepared and aware of avalanche warnings before starting your hike.

Final Thoughts

Talapus and Ollalie Lakes is a great hike for those looking to enjoy a beautiful mountain setting without venturing too far from Seattle. Whether you’re hiking in the snow or on a dry day, the trail offers stunning views, a good workout, and a peaceful escape from the city. Always be prepared, check conditions, and remember that the journey itself is just as rewarding as reaching the destination. Happy hiking!