Hiking Lake Serene: A glacier lake at the base of Mount Index

As Summer finally arrives in Washington State there is still time to get out and enjoy some of this awesome Sun we are expected to have. So to continue on with another day hike in Snohomish County post, here is another fantastic hike to add to the list.

Located in the Cascades, just outside Gold Bar on State Route 2, sits a gem of a hike, Lake Serene. More than just a hop skip and jump down a trail, like Monte Cristo, Lake Serene is a fun, challenging, and very very rewarding hike that will offer an abundance of eye candy. Travel east on SR 2, turn right onto Mount Index Rd, and follow till you arrive at the Lake Serene trail head and parking lot. Park, get ready, and then look up to receive an eye full of one of the wonders that awaits you, Mount Index.

The Lake Serene trail starts off with a gentle incline, lots of shade, and the sites and sounds of a mature forest. The trail continues on and splits when hikers are given a choice; right to Bridal Falls or left onto Lake Serene. At this juncture you maybe thinking, “this is a pretty easy hike and 1 mile left to go will a cake walk”. Wish I could say it was so but that is not the case. The last mile you’re are challenge by a 1,300′ stair climb that hand me singing Led Zepplin’s Stairway to Heaven to keep my mind off the burning feeling quickly appearing in the quads and calves.

Upon reaching the summit and cresting the downward slope, you’ll be thankful for the reprieve of stairs, you’re welcomed to Lake Serene by looking through the trees into tranquil sapphire blue waters. The glacier water is so clear and clean that it makes you want to jump right in. Not for the lighthearted, the waters of Lake Serene are more than cold enough to take the breadth away. Me, not being the wisest of people, dove in right away from lunch Rock. It felt great to me but then again I do have a layer of insulation keeping me warm.

The way down is an easy walk when compared to the climb. Enough it and take in the view just watch your step. Enjoy the hike!

Website Used to Research Hike: http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/lake-serene