Parish Hikes

   

Hike #2: Annette Lake Hike

Even though the Annette Lake hike is an ambitious one - a total of 8 miles for the round trip parish members who select to go even just part way will be rewarded by an enriching outdoor experience.

Giant, old growth trees, the constant throaty clamor of the large stream that runs through the narrow valley used by the trail, and beautiful bird-song will be just several of the gifts given to those who venture forth for the hike. Even if the day is hot, the trail to Annette Lake is pleasant for hiking because of the continuous shade provided by the wonderful forest. Intrepid hikers who intend to go all the way to the lake should bring mosquito repellent if they plan to linger by the lake for any length of time.

For the less ambitious there are two recommended turn around points. People who rarely walk may only want to go as far as the large log bridge that takes the path over a rushing stream about 100 yards from the parking area. That is a very short hike, but if the day is hot and sunny, the stream could be an inviting destination. Parents with little children should be aware that the stream crossed by the bridge is rather swift at this point. A second turn around point is about one mile up the trail. This turn around place is about 5 or 10 minutes past a giant log that has been turned into a part of the footpath. The log has broad, gentle steps cut into its length and takes the hiker through an opening in the forest where you would expect Bambi and Thumper to appear at any moment. Hike to the next bridge, a little one over a quiet stream. There is a small area here that would work well for a picnic. Hikers with a middle level of ambition might want to make this their destination.

People who are in condition or are willing to take the fine trail all the way to the lake will not be sorry they did. While the lake itself is of modest proportions, the upward trail gives hikers wondrous views of the tight valley and surrounding cliffs with the stream falling further and further below as altitude is gained.

How to get there
The trailhead is only 42 miles from church. Take Highway 18 to Interstate 90. Then take I-90 east toward Spokane and Snoqualmie Pass. Leave I-90 at exit 47, marked by large signs that say "Denny Creek" and "Asahel Curtis." If you get to Snoqualmie Pass you have gone one exit too far and will have to turn around and come back down. This is the same exit hikers take for the Olallie Lake hike. However, rather than turning left and driving over the freeway to get to the parking area, as soon as you exit, turn right! The road will almost immediately "T". At the "T" turn left. A sign will direct you toward the trailhead. Drive on the narrow gravel road to the paved parking area. There is a primitive toilet facility at the parking area. The forest service maintains several picnic tables here, too - just in case you do not want to walk at all!

This is a popular trail so the lot may be crowded. The trailhead is located at the east side of the parking area. There are actually two trails at the trailhead. The sign will direct us to "Annette Lake". The other trail is a short, loop trail through the ancient trees of the Asahel Curtis grove.

If the weather seems uncertain on hike day, call the parish tape recorder by 6:00am for a "go" or "no go" message.