Sunday Lake Trail

The trailhead for the Sunday Lake Trail is accessed via a gravel road. Be aware that this access road can be rough and heavily potholed, especially for vehicles with lower clearance. Drive slowly and cautiously.

Yes, the Sunday Lake Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it is located within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the natural environment and wildlife.

The best time to hike the Sunday Lake Trail is typically from late spring through early fall. If hiking in May or June, be prepared for the Sunday Creek crossing to be 1-2 feet deep and fast-moving, potentially requiring water shoes and poles. The trail offers a quieter experience compared to other trails in the Snoqualmie region.

While a permit from Campbell Global was sometimes mentioned in the past, there is an ongoing agreement with the USFS that allows access to the trail. Generally, no specific permit is required for day hiking the Sunday Lake Trail itself. However, for overnight stays in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, you may need a wilderness permit. Always check the latest regulations with the US Forest Service before your trip.

The trail offers varied terrain. The first 1.6 miles often follow an old logging road with visible remnants of two tracks. You'll traverse marshy grasslands, requiring navigation around wet spots, sometimes on raised planks. Beyond Sunday Creek, the trail becomes more primitive, with sections that can be wet or act as seasonal creeks. Expect erosion, downed trees (blowdowns), and brushy areas. The trail transitions between second-growth and old-growth forests, becoming rockier in places.

You'll encounter diverse flora including wildflowers like dandelions, fireweed, and skunk cabbage in marshy areas, and huckleberry, salmonberry, and devil's club later on. The forest features impressive old-growth Douglas fir, Western hemlock, and red cedar. Keep an eye out for ferns, European black slugs, and red-legged frogs. Near Sunday Lake, you can enjoy reflections of Goat Mountain and spot dragonflies. A massive waterfall is visible on the west side of the valley. Historical logging artifacts, such as a logging trailer and oil drums, are also scattered along the route.

The Sunday Lake Trail is often considered a good option for first-time backpacking or youth adventures due to its relatively low elevation gain to the lake. However, certain challenges like the deep and fast-moving Sunday Creek crossing, numerous blowdowns, and brushy sections can increase the difficulty, making it intermediate or even difficult for some. Families with younger children should be prepared for these obstacles.

Yes, the most notable challenge is the Sunday Creek crossing. Depending on the season (especially May/June), it can be 1-2 feet deep and relatively fast, potentially requiring hikers to wade through. It's advisable to bring water shoes and trekking poles for this section. Additionally, frequent blowdowns (fallen trees) and brushy areas require careful navigation, sometimes involving climbing over or detouring around obstacles.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Sunday Lake Trail. However, sections of the route also utilize parts of the National Forest Development Road 5720 and the Little Kid Road.

Yes, there are opportunities for camping, particularly at lakeside sites near Sunday Lake. As this trail is within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, be sure to follow all wilderness regulations regarding camping, campfires, and Leave No Trace principles. Always check for any fire restrictions before your trip.

While the trail is technically accessible, winter conditions can significantly increase its difficulty and hazards. Snow, ice, and colder temperatures will make the creek crossing more dangerous, and blowdowns may be harder to navigate. Winter hiking requires specialized gear, experience, and careful planning. It's generally recommended for experienced winter hikers.