Lily Basin Trail #86

Dogs Unknown

Features Commonly Backpacked · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The Lily Basin Trail #86 begins at the Lily Basin Trailhead, located off NF-48. The trail climbs steadily along a forested, arduous ridgeline for 4 miles before presenting epic views of Johnson Peak, Packwood Lake, and Mt. Rainier. The trail eventually crosses the west face of Johnson Peak and proceeds southwest on a relatively easy, open grade to the Angry Mountain Trail #90. From here, the route then descends slightly along the south side of Angry Mountain, rounding the Middle East Johnson Creek drainage and Heart Lake. A small trail leads down to Heart Lake where there are campsites for backpackers.

The trail then continues to climb to the ridge leading to Hawkeye Point. In this area, you might have to navigate deep fields of snow that can last well into the summer heat. If you have time, take a small detour up to Hawkeye Point for beautiful 360-degree views of the Goat Rocks and Cascade Volcanoes.

After a short descent, the trail intersects the Goat Ridge Trail #95 and continues descending toward Goat Lake through fields of flowers and rushing creeks. Eventually, the route turns south and passes through fields of lupines and by great views of Mt. Adams. The route continues through rolling terrain to the junction with Snowgrass Trail #96.