Anderson & Watson Lakes Hike in Washington 2025
An easy hike to two fantastic sub-alpine lakes
Best time: July–October
A perfect summer destination, Anderson and Watson Lakes, are located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, not far from Concrete, Washington. They can be reached by a popular 6.4-mi (10.3-km) Anderson and Watson Lakes Trail. It starts at the beautiful mossy forest and climbs to the Alpine meadow with wildflowers up to Anderson Butte. Hikers will appreciate lovely views of Mount Baker and Shuksan along the way. After the steep climb, the trail goes down to the Anderson lake located at 4,500 ft (1,372 m). Then the trail goes up to the Noisy-Diobsud Wilderness and descends again to Watson Lakes at 4,400 ft (1,341 m).
Lakes are surrounded by green meadows and unusual rock formations. Camping is available at both Anderson as well as East and West Watson Lakes. The best time to visit is July to October, with August being the favorite due to flowers and berries on the trail. Fishers must have a Washington state fishing license. No campfires are allowed at Watson Lakes.
