Lake of the Angels (Putvin Trail)

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Features Fall Colors · Lake · Swimming · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Gaining 3,358 feet in elevation over nearly four miles of trail, the Putvin Trail to the Lake of the Angels is one of the steepest, yet most rewarding, day trips in the State of Washington. The payoff is a majestic alpine basin with a pristine lake surrounded by craggy peaks. Peakbaggers rejoice.

During the first 1.3 miles, Putvin Trail (#813) nearly 900 feet, crossing over three drainage areas that, when wet, can be tough. With incredible views of the Hamma Hamma River Valley and Mount Pershing, this first section in the forest is scenic and rewarding in its own way. Pace yourself, there are more strenuous sections to come.

At 1.3 miles, the trail meets an old forest service road, now grown over. Heading downhill along this path, the trail soon meets the main trail to Lake of the Angels.

Over the course of the next 1.5 miles, the trail gains 1,630 feet in elevation, mostly through wooded areas, up a ridge, eventually leading to a headwall. The headwall is the reason most never make it to this lake, but that is because of misleading trip reports making it seem like a death defying scramble. Instead, approach the section of trail just before and through the headwall with care and seriousness. You can climb up by testing first, then pulling on, sturdy roots and juggy rocks--as long as you stay calm and patient. Sturdy shoes with a good tread are a good idea on this trail.

Past the headwall, the trail levels off a bit, leading through a small valley and over another ridge before arriving in the Valley of Heaven. The Valley of Heaven can be confusing and route-finding skills are necessary. Take some time and enjoy the view of the Pond of the False Prophet.

As the trail weaves through the muddiness of the valley, keep an eye out for trail markers and the path. Most trails do lead to the correct area, but the general rule of thumb is to continue Northwest, where the final climb will take place. Before the last elevation gain, the trail enters Olympic National Park, as marked by a sign. Past the sign, you must gain another 338 feet of elevation over 7/10ths of a mile, something many weary legs will not want to do. While your thighs, quads, lungs and brain may be screaming at you, the view as you round the final corner and see the Lake of the Angels will reenergize you and make it all worthwhile.

Lake of the Angels isn't big, taking around 10 minutes to circumnavigate, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in stunning beauty. With views of Mount Skokomish and Mount Stone reflecting off the clear water, the area around Lake of the Angels is simply breathtaking.

Wildflowers make this an amazing place to be in the late spring, while marmots are commonly seen in rocky areas near the lake.

Carl Putvin perished on the trail in 1913 during a nasty snow storm, living forever as the namesake for the route to the Lake of the Angels.