Hike to Talapus Lake and Olallie Lake

Hiking has long since been one of my favorite hobbies. The feeling of being away from it all and the peace that comes from getting to a mountain lake or to the top of a high peak is always a great way to refresh the soul. The fact that my hobby of photography gets intertwined with hiking is an added bonus.

The hike to Talapus Lake and Olallie Lake was an excellent hike. I would recommend the hike to anyone as the round trip is only a little more than 6 miles. I would recommend if you are traveling with little ones that you only go as far as Talapus Lake. Olallie Lake is a bit more of a stretch of the legs and most of the groups we ran into with little ones had or were stopping at Talapus Lake. Because of this fact Talapus Lake was a little crowded. Continuing on to Olallie Lake, the hike becomes a little more difficult but worth the extra effort. As there are fewer people on this part of the trail you get to hear more of nature and enjoy the peace that it brings.
The trail offers many opportunities to stop and enjoy the view of small waterfalls, rushing stream, giant old trees and everyone once in a while a peak at mountain tops. Both lakes are picturesque and are surrounded by tree covered peaks. Once you reach Olallie Lake the trail continues on the west side of the bank that offers several different views and chances dip your hands and feet into the cold mountain water.

Talapus Lake

Olallie Lake

More information about the hike can be found on the Washington Trail Association site and more photos from the hike can be found in my flickr album Hike to Talapus and Olallie Lakes.
-Jeremy