Lake Serene
About
What It Is
Lake Serene is an alpine lake situated in Snohomish County, Washington, at an elevation of 2,525 feet, beneath the sheer walls of Mount Index [3]. The lake covers approximately 49.9 acres and sits within the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, administered by the Skykomish Ranger District [2][3]. It is classified as a high lake and draws visitors primarily for hiking and fishing [3][4]. The lake basin faces north and can retain snow through July, largely due to avalanche accumulation from the surrounding cliffs [3].
Activities & Experiences
Visitors can hike to the lake via Trail 1068, an 8.2-mile roundtrip route with 2,000 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate to hard [1]. A signed spur at 1.7 miles leads to Bridal Veil Falls, adding a 1-mile roundtrip detour with steep stair climbing and close views of the falls [1]. At the lake, hikers can follow the shoreline trail to a large rock overlooking the water, with Mount Index cliffs rising roughly 3,000 feet directly across [1]. Fishing for rainbow trout is available; anglers can cast from the outlet side or navigate the shoreline boulders, and fishing from a raft is considered the most effective approach [3].
Practical Access
The trailhead is reached from Everett via Highway 2 east through Gold Bar, continuing approximately seven miles past town to Mount Index Road, then 0.4 miles on a dirt road to the signed Lake Serene Trail 1068 spur and parking area at roughly 600 feet elevation [1][3]. A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required at the trailhead [1][2]. A restroom is available at the trailhead [3]. The lake basin can hold snow into July, making late summer the most reliable window for a full visit [3]. The trail is immensely popular, and parking is frequently exhausted on weekends; arriving early on a weekday is strongly advised [1].
Restrictions
Day use only; overnight camping is not permitted at the lake [3]. Dogs must be kept on leash [1][3]. A recreation pass is required at the trailhead [1][2]. Hikers are advised to exercise caution near Bridal Veil Falls creek, as the current can knock people off their feet [1]. Leave No Trace principles apply throughout the area [1].
What Makes It Distinctive
The combination of a dramatic alpine lake and a major waterfall on a single trail makes Lake Serene unusual among day hikes in the Central Cascades [1]. The north-facing basin and proximity to Mount Index produce a striking visual contrast: open water backed by cliffs that rise thousands of feet and snow that lingers well into summer [1][3]. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout by hand, offering a fishing opportunity at relatively modest elevation for an alpine setting, which is uncommon in the region [3].
Sources
- Lake Serene — Washington Trails Association
- Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest | Lake Serene Trail 1068 | Forest Service
- Serene | Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife
- Lake Serene
- Typical duration: 6h
Access & fees
- northwest forest pass or america the beautiful pass
- parking pass required
Things to do
- alpine lake viewing
- fishing, rainbow trout
- hiking, trail 1068
- nature observation
- photography
- picnicking
- waterfall viewing
- wildlife watching
Amenities
- restroom at trailhead
Best time to visit
- spring for fishing
- weekday or early arrival
Features
- alpine lake, 49.9 acres
- mount index cliffs
- north-facing basin
Nearby
- bridal veil falls
Good to know
- combine with a visit to bridal veil falls
- day use only
- large trailhead parking area
- trailhead elevation 600 ft
Photos
