Family Backpack - Anderson Lakes

Field trip: Backpacking with Kids

Family Backpack - Anderson Lakes

Beginner friendly family backpacking trip with opportunity for water play and kid-friendly climbing rocks with backdrop of Koma Kulshan. Ideal for all ages, but this trip is aimed for middle aged kids in the 7-11 age range.

  • Easy
  • Easy
  • Mileage: 4.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 640 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 4,830 ft
  • Pace: Kid pace
  • Meet at trailhead on Friday, July 19 at 10:30 am

Directions (Approximately 2hr 50 min drive from Seattle)

Google Map

From I-5, take exit 230 and head east on Highway 20 for approximately 23 miles. Turn left on a paved road signed for Baker Lake Road between mileposts 82 and 83. At 14.2 miles, turn right onto a paved road signed for Baker Lake Dam Road. 1.7 miles along, cross the dam on a one-lane road, and 2.4 miles in, take a left onto FR-1107. Follow this gravel road for 8.9 miles and arrive at a junction signed Anderson and Watson Lakes. Travel 1.1 miles on a bumpy gravel road. Privy available at trailhead.

  • NW Forest Pass Required

Family friendly backpack in North Cascades - Mt. Baker area.  Trail involves some elevation but overall relatively short with boardwalk, meadows and stunning view of Koma Kulshan (Mt Baker). Lower Anderson Lake is our destination with a grassy campsite, opportunity for water play, kid-friendly boulders for climbing and space to run. 

I’ll send out a questionnaire about 3 weeks in advance to confirm attendance and if desired, option to opt in for a pizzadilla-style shared dinner.  Shared motivational snacks are common on group family trips – I will ask if there are any allergies or other restrictions. Final email with details a week in advance.

  • Link to detailed trip sheet and packing list

Route/Place

Anderson Lakes, Watson Lakes & Mount Watson


Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

See trip sheet   for detailed packing list.

Trip Reports