Mirror Lake Trail

Starting your journey near Kittitas County, Washington, the Mirror Lake Trail offers a scenic 5 km (3.1 miles) out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of approximately 200 meters (656 feet). This medium-difficulty trail is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest without committing to a full-day trek.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the Snoqualmie Pass area, and you can park near the Pacific Crest Trailhead off of Exit 54 on I-90. For those using public transport, the nearest significant landmark is the Summit at Snoqualmie, where you can catch a shuttle or taxi to the trailhead.### Trail Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use HiiKER, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience.### Trail Highlights As you begin your hike, you'll find yourself surrounded by dense forest, primarily composed of Douglas fir and western hemlock. The first kilometer (0.6 miles) is relatively flat, making it an excellent warm-up. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including the Steller's jay and the American dipper, which are commonly seen in this area.### Elevation Gain and Terrain After the initial flat section, the trail starts to ascend gradually. Over the next 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), you'll gain most of the 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation. The terrain can be rocky and uneven, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Along this stretch, you'll encounter several small streams and waterfalls, which are particularly picturesque in the spring and early summer when the snowmelt is at its peak.### Reaching Mirror Lake At around the 3 km (1.9 miles) mark, you'll reach a fork in the trail. Take the left path to continue towards Mirror Lake. The final kilometer (0.6 miles) is a gentle descent, leading you to the serene waters of Mirror Lake. The lake is surrounded by towering evergreens and offers stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks, making it a perfect spot for photography or a peaceful lunch break.### Flora and Fauna The area around Mirror Lake is rich in flora and fauna. In the summer months, you'll find wildflowers such as lupine and Indian paintbrush in full bloom. Wildlife sightings may include deer, chipmunks, and occasionally black bears, so it's essential to stay alert and make noise to avoid surprising any animals.### Historical Significance The region around Kittitas County has a rich history, with roots tracing back to the Native American tribes who originally inhabited the area. The Snoqualmie Tribe, in particular, has a long-standing connection to these lands. The trail itself follows part of the historic route used by early settlers and fur traders, adding a layer of historical significance to your hike.### Return Journey After enjoying the tranquility of Mirror Lake, retrace your steps back to the trailhead. The return journey offers a different perspective of the landscape, and the descent is generally easier on the legs. Make sure to pack out all your trash and leave no trace to preserve the natural beauty of the area for future hikers.This trail is a fantastic option for those looking to experience the natural beauty and historical richness of the Pacific Northwest in a manageable day hike.