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Summary: Trail starts easy enough. Climbs a bit, then runs flat along the river for the first 2 1/2 miles. Then, it goes up. 1300 feet in 1 mile. Tread is terrible -- be prepared for rocks, roots, and plenty of mud as you stair step straight up. About 2/3 of the way up, you'll cross a stream below a beautiful bridleveil waterfall. Stop and rest, you're not there yet. You'll hit Rachel Lake at 4 miles. Keep going around the right of the lake. You'll see the trail before you hit the lake. If all else fails, find the toilet. You'll find the trail. Go around the end of the lake and start climbing up. After 1/2 mile, the trail reaches a saddle. Look for the Rampart Lakes sign on a tree on your left. Go left on that trail and follow to the lakes. There are a number of small lakes in the basin above Rachel Lake. Don't stop at the first ones you see. Lots of nice camping spots around the lakes. Trailhead: I-90 east to exit 62. Follow signs 5 miles to Kachess Lake Campground. Pass campground, turn left on Box Canyon Road (4930). Park at the parking lot on your left at the end of the road. (Lat:47.401 Lon:-121.284) Trail Guides for Rampart Lakes: 100 Hikes in the Alpine Lakes by Ira Spring (Mountaineers) Best Seasons: Fall, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Cle Elum Ranger Station (509) 674-4411 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Marybeth Dingledy, who has posted 8 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Jackson on 9/5/2011 This is a spectacular hike, with varied terrain, constant variety, scenic views of jagged peaks, lakes, waterfalls, and tons of wildlife. An added bonus is it escapes the freeway noise of the other I-90 corridor hikes. There are a few lowland sections that have a ton of thicket & brush, so the trail is narrow, but easy to find. Be prepared to deal with fallen trees. On the climb up to Rachel Lake, there are a few offshoots of the trail that luckily meet up with the main trail again (depending on time of year if stream beds are dry). Two things to remember: 1. Bring bug repellent. The mosquitos are strong this year because of the heavy snow. 2. The parking lot requires a $5.00 Forest Service fee, and does not accept Discovery Pa
Reviewed by Whit on 8/26/2009 26 August 2009: This was a really great hike. The hike up is as the description says... Easy at first then steep stepping for a while. When you get to Rachel Lake it's very easy to find the trail to continue on. Simply follow the trail to the right. The sign for Rampart Lakes is easily visible. Great hike where most people just stop at Rachel Lake so you get a lot of scenery to yourself (or shared with few others at least). The water is cold but warmer than Rachel Lake due to depth. Took a long swim! Great hike! 
Reviewed by Todd on 8/3/2009 Hey, we are hiking in here next weeked. Just curious if anyone knows if a parking pass of any kind is needed at the trailhead? Also, I see no mention of anyone trying fishing in Rachel or Rampart lakes..does anyone know how fishing is there?
Reviewed by DR on 8/10/2008 This trail was an excellent workout with beautiful scenery, a great view of the lake, and varied terrain. We didn't make it to the upper section because of quite a few downed trees, but definitely worth hiking. 
Reviewed by Suzanne on 7/16/2007 This trail has all the components I like: wildflowers, waterfalls, fantastic views, beautiful lakes, and a good physical workout. Where else but on a trail like this, in the middle of July, can you bask in 85-degree temperatures and get hit by a snowball?!
Reviewed by Todd on 8/3/2006 Great hike but very steep with roots and large rocks the last mile. No snow on the trail and the view of the lake is awesome.
Reviewed by AD on 6/11/2006 Lower section of the trail is still about 70% covered in snow. Don't know about the upper section. We didn't make it that far.
Reviewed by Viewer on 6/11/2004 fgfffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Summary: Trail starts easy enough. Climbs a bit, then runs flat along the river for the first 2 1/2 miles. Then, it goes up. 1300 feet in 1 mile. Tread is terrible -- be prepared for rocks, roots, and plenty of mud as you stair step straight up. About 2/3 of the way up, you'll cross a stream below a beautiful bridleveil waterfall. Stop and rest, you're not there yet. You'll hit Rachel Lake at 4 miles. Keep going around the right of the lake. You'll see the trail before you hit the lake. If all else fails, find the toilet. You'll find the trail. Go around the end o Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Washington Hiking, Washington Trails, Washington Hikes, King County Hiking, King County Trails, King County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
