Alpine Lakes Wilderness
Overview
Gem Lake, August 2009
Starting Elevation:3100 feet
Summit Elevation: 5430 feet
Total Gain: ~3000 feet
Round Trip Distance: 11.4 miles
Wright Mountain is a great excuse to visit two stunningly beautiful alpine lakes (Snow and Gem) in one day. The majority of the approach follows the popular Snow Lake trail with views of nearby Chair Peak commanding attention most of the way. Not one of the higher peaks accessible from Interstate 90, Wright Mountain is surrounded by a few relatively giant peaks. With this setting, what is lacking in elevation is made up for in terms of scenery. Just the view of Kaleetan Peak from the summit of Wright is imposing to say the least. From this vantage point, it's hard to believe that there is a class 3 route on Kaleetan. From the summit, outstanding views of many Alpine Lakes Wilderness peaks take time to absorb. To name a few, many of which are listed on Summit Post: Preacher, Lundin, Snoqualmie, Chair, Kaleetan, Roosevelt, Preacher, Garfield, Treen, Price, Big Snow, Overcoat, Chimney Rock, and Lemah.
The Route
Starting at the Snow Lake trailhead hike northwest along a gradually ascending well defined trail. Passing through forest, brushy-slopes and the occasional talus field. After a mile an a half turn right at the fork (marked with a sign). Switchbacks lead up to the pass located between Chair Peak and Snoqualmie Mountain. From here if the weather is cooperating you should have your first good view of Snow Lake.
Loosing 400 vertical feet in more switchbacks will take you near the edge of the lake. Follow the main trail past many camp sites as it contours the lake shore around to the north side. Here there is another fork and this time you should turn left (also marked with a sign) towards Gem Lake. There are several ups and downs during this part of the route but during late summer, wild blueberries might cheer you up. A mile and a half from the pass you will reach the base of Wright Mountain. The official trail leads all the way to Gem Lake and a well defined boot path on the north side of the lake leads from there up the east slope to the summit. There are several talus crossings above Gem Lake but they are marked with many cairns and if you have been on talus before you will find that they are not challenging.
Getting There
Coming east or west, follow I-90 to Snoqualmie Pass. Take exit 52 (West Summit). and if necessary, cross to the north side of the freeway. Skip the first road on the right (which heads to the PCT parking lot). Take the second right and drive up past ski chalets till you get to the Alpental parking lot (about 2 miles from I-90). If you end up cruising through some Swiss looking neighborhoods with vacation homes, you’ll know you took a wrong turn somewhere. Snow Lakes trailhead is there and easily visible on the eastern side of the large parking lot.
Gem Lake Video / External Links
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Camping / Restrictions
Camping is welcome in the upper lake basin and many regularly used spots are available. Campfires are not allowed in the lake basins.
NW Forest Pass Required at Trailhead
Contact Ranger Station in North Bend for further questions:
North Bend Ranger Station
from Everett (425) 888-1421
from Seattle (206) 622-8378
