Goat Lake

Dogs Leashed

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

This hike is great for a longer, steadier incline and for an early-season backpacking trip. Hikers will enjoy river views, waterfalls, and old-growth forest the whole way up before arriving at a glistening alpine lake surrounded by high peaks. For backpackers, there are about 15 campsites that are fairly open and close to the lake.

Within 0.25 miles of the trailhead, the trail splits into Upper and Lower Elliot Creek Trails. The upper trail used to be a road, so it's easier to hike and has fewer streams and a steady incline. This route has views of waterfalls and a few jagged peaks from Sheep Mountain. The lower trail is shorter and slightly more difficult, with a rockier and wetter pathway that follows Elliot Creek. Our recommended route takes the Upper Trail on the way out and the Lower Trail on the way back.

The trails come back together at 3.6 miles. After another mile, the incline increases and the switchbacks begin. There are occasional views of Elliot Creek and a large waterfall. Once at the lake, the campsites are on the left and clearly marked along with a backcountry toilet. Once past the campground, the trail continues down to the lake where most people stop. There are even better views farther along the lake, however. The trail narrows and is sometimes overgrown with fallen trees, but it is well worth the extra few minutes. On a clear day, you can enjoy views of Cadet Peak rising above Goat Lake.

- Description by Colin Bryant, Outdoor Project