ピアス郡の湖・トップ20

Small quiet lake, today we were all alone to hear the silence

Keep your eyes out for bears on this trail. Saw a mother black bear and her cub near here when hiking back to the Palisades Lakes Trailhead in the early evening.

Mowich Lake is a pristine lake and a popular overnight spot with a backcountry campground that operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It can get especially busy during peak season, so avoiding those times will give you more camping options. The area offers reliable water sources and also allows boating and fishing in the lake. The campground includes composting toilets. Check current road closures, as access may be limited: https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/road-status.htm

Golden Lakes are stunning alpine ponds along the trail with beautiful sunset views. It's a good place to refill water and reset after the long descent from the ridge. The trail flattens briefly here before the steady climb to Mowich Lake begins. You’ll also find a composting toilet nearby. If you decide to camp, remember that a backcountry permit is required.

Tipsoo Lake, just off the road, offers stunning views of Mount Rainier reflecting in calm waters. A short 0.8-mile loop trail surrounds the lake, with vibrant wildflowers in late summer. Best visited early or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Swimming is not allowed to protect the habitat.

At 5,430 ft, Chinook Pass offers stunning mountain along Mather Memorial Parkway. The pass is open mid-May to November—check for seasonal closures before you go.

The summit of this pass is marked by a rustic stone-and-wood archway that happens to be part of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail. If you want to hop off your bike for a minute, there's a pretty, short nature trail here with great views of Mt. Rainier, the Cascade Mountains, and Tipsoo Lake.

Golden Lakes Camp is a scenic backcountry site on the northwest section of the Wonderland Trail, known for its peaceful alpine setting and beautiful sunset views. Perched near a series of small, tarn-like lakes nestled in subalpine forest, the camp sits at about 5,200 feet and is often used as a midpoint between Mowich Lake and South Puyallup River Camp. The lakes themselves are shallow and can be a bit buggy, but they create a lovely backdrop for an evening walk or sunrise coffee. Campsites are tucked among trees, offering privacy and some protection from wind. Amenities include a composting toilet, bear pole, and water access from the lakes (filter before drinking).