Alger Alps via Squires Lake Trail

The most common starting point for this trail is Squires Lake Park. There is a dedicated parking area at the park. From there, you can begin your hike around Squires Lake before ascending towards Alger Alp. No shuttles are typically required for this route.

The difficulty is generally considered moderate, making it a good 'training hike' for those looking to build stamina. The initial loop around Squires Lake is easy and suitable for children and beginners. The ascent to Alger Alp involves a steady gain of 1,000 to 1,070 feet over 4.2 to 6 miles round trip, which might be challenging for absolute beginners but is manageable for those with some hiking experience.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Please remember to pack out any waste.

The Alger Alp trail is accessible year-round, making it a reliable option in any season. For the best views and most comfortable hiking conditions, spring and fall are ideal. Winter hikes are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions, especially on higher elevations.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access Squires Lake Park or to hike the Alger Alps via Squires Lake Trail. It's a publicly accessible area.

The trail offers varied terrain. You'll start with a mix of doubletrack and singletrack paths around Squires Lake, some on small ridges. As you ascend towards Alger Alp, the route transitions to old logging roads, providing a steady, moderate grade. Be aware that some sections of the South Ridge Trail can be narrow and close to a ledge, though this part is relatively short. The area features Chuckanut Sandstone and shale, and you'll see massive stumps from past logging.

The initial section around Squires Lake offers pleasant lakeside views. As you climb, you'll catch glimpses of surrounding lakes like Whatcom, Samish, and Squires. A mid-hike viewpoint may provide distant views of Mount Baker. The summit of Alger Alp (1,280 ft) is the main highlight, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Skagit Valley, Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and its islands. You can find a specific Viewpoint marked on the Komoot tour.

Yes, portions of this route are part of the Pacific Northwest Trail 03 Washington, a significant long-distance trail. The route also utilizes sections of official trails such as 87 (Washington), 95 (Washington), 1300, and the South Ridge Trail.

Beyond hiking, Alger Alp is renowned as a launch point for hang gliders. On a clear, sunny day, you might witness a continuous stream of hang gliders taking off from the summit, adding an exciting element to your visit. The area also has a rich history of logging, evident from the massive old stumps you'll encounter.

There are two primary routes to the summit. The North Route, which starts from Squires Lake Park, is approximately 5.0 miles round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. The South Route, starting from Alger Cain Lake Road, is slightly shorter at about 4.2 miles round trip but has a bit more elevation gain at 1,070 feet. The route described here primarily uses the North Route from Squires Lake.

Given the moderate difficulty and varied terrain, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, snacks, and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Trekking poles can be very helpful, especially on the ascents and descents and for navigating any narrow sections. Dress in layers, as conditions can change, and consider bringing a map or GPS device, even though the trail is generally well-defined.