Discover a pleasant alpine lake alternative to nearby, crowded Lake Ingalls. Tranquil Lake Ann can't boast the same dramatic view of jagged Mount Stuart, but it has its fair share of scenery, especially during fall when the larches around it turn to gold.
Access Lake Ann from the Emeralda Basin Trailhead. After 0.4 miles of hiking, come to a junction. The right-hand trail leads up and away to Longs Pass, and eventually the ever-popular Lake Ingalls, but you'll take the left-hand fork and continue north on the Esmerelda Trail. The trail to Lake Ann and beyond is rugged, steep and narrow and can be hard to follow at points.
Hike through meadows and take several switchbacks into a high basin with the North Fork Teanaway River meandering through the bottom. The trail climbs through open, rocky terrain with views of Esmeralda Peaks to the southeast, as well as views overlooking Lake Ann.
3.1 miles in is a signed trail intersection for Lake Ann. Begin climbing again, up and over a ridge to the north, to views of Lake Ann just below you. If you're tired, soak in the scenery around you, or head down to the beautiful lake and explore. Just remember to tread lightly--this is a fragile area.
WTA Pro Tip: Make it a thru-hike! The trail continues past Lake Ann to the basin of Fortune Creek and Van Epps Pass, then continues to Scatter Creek, ultimately ending at the Scatter Creek Trailhead.
Lake Ann
47.4369,
-120.9373
Map & Directions
-
Length
- 8.2 miles, roundtrip
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Elevation Gain
- 2,200 feet
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Highest Point
- 6,500 feet
Discover a pleasant alpine lake alternative to nearby, crowded Lake Ingalls. Tranquil Lake Ann can't boast the same dramatic view of jagged Mount Stuart, but it has its fair share of scenery, especially during fall when the larches around it turn to gold.
Continue reading
Hiking Lake Ann
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Before You Go
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Northwest Forest PassWTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead.
Getting There
Take exit 85 on I-90 onto Highway 970 east. After 7 miles, turn left off of Highway 970 on to Teanaway Road. Continue for 13 miles to a Y in the road where it becomes dirt.
Take NF-9737, continuing in the direction of Beverly Campground. Remain on that dirt road for 10 miles until it dead-ends at the trailhead parking lot.
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