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Lake Easton

Hiking trails & Routes

Lake Easton

Easy

3.5

(23)

hikers

Lake Easton

Q: Is the Lake Easton trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, the trail at Lake Easton is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners, families, and children. It's predominantly flat with minimal elevation gain, following a well-maintained former railroad grade. The park also features a beach and a playground, adding to its family-friendly appeal.

Q: What is the terrain like on this route?

The terrain is generally smooth and easy, as much of it follows a former railroad grade. While mostly flat, there are a few short switchbacks on the north side of the lake. The path winds through deep woods and runs alongside the Yakima River, offering plenty of shade.

Q: What notable features or landmarks can I see along the way?

This trail offers several interesting features. You'll enjoy beautiful views of Lake Easton , walk through an old railroad tunnel, and cross impressive bridges, including the Old US Highway 10 bridge and the Iron Horse Trail Bridge .

Q: Does this trail intersect with any other well-known paths?

Yes, the route is part of the larger Lake Easton State Park and utilizes significant sections of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. You may also encounter segments of the Loop D Loop's trail.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike Lake Easton?

The trail is excellent for hiking from mid-spring through fall. In winter, the area transforms and is popular for snowshoeing. Its convenient location directly off I-90 makes it accessible year-round for various outdoor activities.

Q: Is the Lake Easton trail dog-friendly?

Yes, pets are welcome on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Lake Easton State Park?

As the trail is located within Lake Easton State Park, a Discover Pass is typically required for vehicle access. You can purchase a day-use pass or an annual pass. Check the official Washington State Parks website for the most current fee information and regulations.

Q: Where is the best place to park for this hike?

The trail is conveniently located directly off I-90 at Exit 70, making it an easy stop for road-trippers. Parking is available within Lake Easton State Park , which serves as the primary trailhead access point.

Q: How long does it typically take to complete this hike?

The full loop is approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and typically takes around 1 hour to complete at a moderate pace. This duration can vary based on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Q: Are there any specific navigation tips for the Lake Easton trail?

While generally straightforward, navigating the full loop can be a bit tricky in places as it connects multiple trails and some road segments. It's recommended to download a map of the route beforehand to ensure you stay on track.

01:04

3.95km

50m

Hiking

Lace up your boots for an easy hike around Lake Easton, a pleasant 2.5 miles (3.9 km) route that takes just over an hour, around 1 hours and 3 minutes. You will experience a gentle climb of 172 feet (52 metres) as the path winds through deep woods. Keep an…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Waypoints

View of Lake Easton

Highlight • Viewpoint

This is some of the highest elevation around the lake.

Tip by

301 m

Old US Highway 10 bridge at Lake Easton

Highlight • Bridge

Before the interstate system was built, US Highway 10 was the only way across the mountains. Today, you can still find bits and pieces of the old highway here and …

Tip by

1.87 km

Lake Easton State Park

Highlight • Lake

Lake Easton State Park spans almost 700 acres across the eastern foothills of the Cascade Range. The park welcomes picnicking, camping, hiking, mountain biking, boating, fishing, swimming, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, wildlife viewing, and more.

Tip by

2.12 km

Iron Horse Trail Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

A functional bridge with a modern build takes bikers and hikers over Lake Easton, where the Yakima River flows out.

Tip by

2.83 km

Lake Easton Tunnel

Highlight • Structure

This is the last tunnel you will see until (or the first tunnel you have seen since) Thorp. Wooded, along the lake, nice spot to stop.

Tip by

3.95 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.09 km

1.28 km

577 m

Surfaces

2.13 km

1.25 km

479 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Monday 18 May

15°C

4°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Lake Easton trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, the trail at Lake Easton is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners, families, and children. It's predominantly flat with minimal elevation gain, following a well-maintained former railroad grade. The park also features a beach and a playground, adding to its family-friendly appeal.

What is the terrain like on this route?

The terrain is generally smooth and easy, as much of it follows a former railroad grade. While mostly flat, there are a few short switchbacks on the north side of the lake. The path winds through deep woods and runs alongside the Yakima River, offering plenty of shade.

What notable features or landmarks can I see along the way?

This trail offers several interesting features. You'll enjoy beautiful views of Lake Easton, walk through an old railroad tunnel, and cross impressive bridges, including the Old US Highway 10 bridge and the Iron Horse Trail Bridge.

Does this trail intersect with any other well-known paths?

Yes, the route is part of the larger Lake Easton State Park and utilizes significant sections of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. You may also encounter segments of the Loop D Loop's trail.

What is the best time of year to hike Lake Easton?

The trail is excellent for hiking from mid-spring through fall. In winter, the area transforms and is popular for snowshoeing. Its convenient location directly off I-90 makes it accessible year-round for various outdoor activities.

Is the Lake Easton trail dog-friendly?

Yes, pets are welcome on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Lake Easton State Park?

As the trail is located within Lake Easton State Park, a Discover Pass is typically required for vehicle access. You can purchase a day-use pass or an annual pass. Check the official Washington State Parks website for the most current fee information and regulations.

Where is the best place to park for this hike?

The trail is conveniently located directly off I-90 at Exit 70, making it an easy stop for road-trippers. Parking is available within Lake Easton State Park, which serves as the primary trailhead access point.

How long does it typically take to complete this hike?

The full loop is approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and typically takes around 1 hour to complete at a moderate pace. This duration can vary based on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Are there any specific navigation tips for the Lake Easton trail?

While generally straightforward, navigating the full loop can be a bit tricky in places as it connects multiple trails and some road segments. It's recommended to download a map of the route beforehand to ensure you stay on track.