Patterson Lake and Rader Creek Loop

The trail is part of the extensive Sun Mountain trail system. While specific parking details aren't provided, trails in this system typically have designated parking areas near their trailheads. It's advisable to check the Sun Mountain Lodge website or local trail maps for the most precise trailhead location and parking information before your visit.

The Sun Mountain Lodge trail system, where this loop is located, generally does not require specific hiking permits or entrance fees for day use. However, it's always a good idea to verify current regulations with Sun Mountain Lodge or local authorities, especially if you plan to use other facilities or during specific seasons.

Trails within the Sun Mountain system are often dog-friendly, but typically require dogs to be on a leash. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to help maintain the trail's natural beauty for everyone.

This trail offers diverse beauty throughout the year. Spring brings abundant wildflowers, while fall showcases golden aspens. It's also notable for melting out relatively early in the year, making it accessible in late winter or early spring. For winter enthusiasts, it's a popular choice for snowshoeing due to its low avalanche risk.

The route features varied terrain. You'll find rolling sections along Patterson Lake, with some rocky parts. The initial stretch involves some downhill and side-hilling. As it turns up Rader Creek, the path becomes steadily uphill, winding back and forth across the creek. It traverses wooded areas, a sunny meadow, and a riparian zone.

The loop is generally considered easy to intermediate. While there are rolling hills and a steady uphill climb along Rader Creek, the elevation gain of approximately 600 feet over 4.7 miles is manageable for most. This makes it suitable for a range of hikers, including those looking for a superb running trail.

You'll enjoy scenic views of Patterson Lake and its surroundings. The Rader Creek portion is a riparian zone, offering great wildlife viewing. The trail also passes through wooded areas, a sunny meadow, and features a vintage horse corral. From higher points, there are good views across the Methow Valley towards the Sawtooths.

The Rader Creek riparian zone is particularly good for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for deer, snowshoe hare, red squirrels, and ermine. The diverse habitats along the route support a variety of local fauna.

Yes, this loop is part of the larger Sun Mountain Lodge trail system, which offers over 30 miles of trails. The route itself utilizes sections of various official trails, including Patterson Lake, Rader Creek, Cabin, Magpie Multi-use, Magpie Loop, Lower Inside Passage, Ain't Never Nuthin, Chickadee, Pete's Dragon, Ponderosa, Overland, Lakeview, Owl, Herringbone Hill, Chickadee Connector, Climb It Change Lower, and Criss Cross.

The trail is described as a "lollipop" hike. This means it starts with an initial out-and-back section that leads to a loop portion, and then you return on the same out-and-back segment. This design offers a varied experience while efficiently connecting different parts of the trail system.

Yes, this trail is a popular choice for snowshoeing in the winter due to its diverse terrain and low avalanche risk. It also tends to melt out relatively early in the year, making it accessible even in late winter or early spring for hiking.