A remote dirt road and an alpine lake usually result in some peaceful solitude. But when a body of water is so gorgeous, you may have to compete for the natural seclusion. Blue Lake is a popular hike near Cascade, Idaho. While it’s tucked away in the shadow of Granite Mountain, it draws a large crowd due to its beautifully wild landscape and the fact that’s it’s easy to get to. Hike less than 2 miles and you’ll arrive at a scenic mountain lake which you can fish for trout or brave the cold water for a swim. If you’re new to backpacking this is an ideal first outing. This is a short hike so stop often, take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Dirt Road to the Trailhead

It’s a long dirt road to Blue Lakes Trailhead but you can tackle it with ease with just about any vehicle. I saw plenty of minivans make the journey. On the way up, after you clear the trees, look to your left and you can see the Granite Peak Fire Lookout. Click here for more details on how to hike to Granite Peak and the lookout.

The trailhead is pretty obvious. There is a medium-sized parking lot that can fit about 20 cars. If you go on the weekend there is a good chance it will be completely full. There is more parking if you drive past the trailhead and park in the area to the right. The trailhead also has a bathroom should you need it.

What Goes Down Must Come Up

If you have read some of our other trail guides, you know we loathe trails that begin with a decline. Blue Lake is an out and back trail so be prepared for the incline on the return trip. The trail is clear and obvious all the way to the lake. You will continue your downhill descent on the rocky terrain past a wooden footbridge and then come to a fork in front of the lake.

Blue Lake

Although the trail can get crowded, there are plenty of opportunities to get away from everyone once you’re at the lake. At the fork, you can choose to circle the lake in either direction. If you go right, you can climb up on some rocks and get the high view of the lake. There are also some backpacking campgrounds along this side. If you need help setting up camp, we have you covered here.

If you go left, you will avoid most of the people but be prepared for some mud when the water level is low. If you want to swim in Blue Lake, head all the way to the opposite shore. It’s a little deeper and easier to get into the water from there.

The lake lives up to its name. The clear water transcends into a dark blue as you look towards the center of the lake. In the fall the contrasting orange and red from the background makes the blue brilliantly standout. Visit during the springtime and the wildflowers surround the lake with yellow and pink. Blue Lake is a beautiful location to spend the day swimming or fishing.

Trail Tips

• Hiking boots will help with the rocky terrain
• Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
• Don’t forget your fishing license