Wallace Falls State Park - Greg Ball Trail to Wallace Lake

The Greg Ball Trail is a trail envisioned by and honoring one of the greatest trail advocates this state has ever had. Ball was a former board member and director of the WTA. In 1993 he launched the organization’s volunteer trail maintenance program which has since grown into the largest state-based program of its kind. In 2004 at the age of 60, tragically, Greg passed away after battling cancer. He designed this trail to Wallace Lake and it was finished in his memory by volunteers from WTA and through support from the Spring Trail Trust.

Start your hike by following the crowds on the main trail toward Wallace Falls. Soon come to a junction. Turning left, follow the Old Railroad Grade Trail 2.2 miles before arriving at a large toilet facility and the beginning of the Greg Ball Trail to your left. A right turn leads hikers 1.1 miles along the Wallace River before arriving at a junction with the Wallace Falls Trail -- a beautiful hike to three major waterfalls in Wallace Falls State Park.

Your route follows the Greg Ball Trail. Pass the toilet facility and follow the trail alongside and above the North Fork of the Wallace River, climbing gently and meandering through maturing second growth. About three miles from the trailhead, catch glimpses of the river cascading down a narrow chasm. About a half mile farther on, the trail terminates at a DNR Road. Turn right on the road and proceed for 0.1 mile to a junction with an old road taking off to the left. Follow this near level forested way for 0.5 mile to the southern tip of Wallace Lake.

This is a pretty spot in heavy timber with picnic tables and an attractive bridge, but the northern end of the lake at Pebble Beach is much nicer. To reach it, head left, following another old road. After a half mile arrive at the beach, a gravelly outwash at the base of a small talus slope. Find yourself a nice sun-warmed log and enjoy the view across the placid lake to what is colloquially referred to as Zeke’s Hill and Mount Index peeking in the distance. Savor the serenity here away from the thundering falls and their crowded trails.

WTA Pro Tip: Camping is allowed around Wallace Lake and further on at Jay Lake, so you can prolong your stay at this tranquil sanctuary. Overnight permits are required for Jay Lake and Wallace Lake. Please call the park office to acquire a permit prior to arrival at 360-793-0420. There is a maximum of 5 persons per campsite. Camp only at designated campsites.