This trailhead is located in the Sultan Basin Watershed, within the Morning Star Natural Resources Conservation Area, managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. This is a special designation to protect ecologically significant areas.
You'll drive right up to the shores of Spada Lake and traverse two flat miles to reach the old trailhead. Once you reach the old trailhead, the climb begins. You'll be huffin' and puffin' as you conquer 40 switchbacks, gaining over 1,000 feet in 1.5 miles. The trail is rough, too — be sure to have good boots or hiking poles to help with the ascent (and descent, too).
The trail evens out after the fortieth switchback and you'll be minutes away from the shores of Little Greider Lake. Big Greider Lake is less than a quarter mile beyond that. Make sure to pack a hearty lunch; you'll be needing some replenishment.
The edge of Big Greider Lake is an ideal lunch location, replete with a stunning view of exposed cliffs and jagged peaks across the lake.
WTA Pro Tip: Before starting your hike, be sure stop at the information kiosk, found 13 miles from the turnoff of Highway 2, in a turnout to your right. Hikers are asked to acknowledge that they understand the rules and regulations for visiting Sultan Basin, which is Everett's public water supply. These include no swimming in the lake, and appropriate disposal of waste.
Field trip: Conditioning Hiking Series
CHS 2 Hike - Greider Lakes
CHS hike led at a CHS 2 pace (2.0-3.0 mph)
- Sat, May 30, 2026
- Seattle Hiking Committee
- Day Hiking
- All Who Qualify, Adults
- Moderate
- Moderate
- Mileage: 8.6 mi
- Elevation Gain: 2,035 ft
- Pace: 2.0-2.5
- 8 (8 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Wed, Apr 22, 2026 at 1:00 PM
- Thu, May 28, 2026 at 5:00 PM
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
- iCal Google
Notes from WTA:
Meeting time TBD. Leader’s carpool will form at the Monroe Park & Ride.
Route/Place
Roster
Required Equipment
Required Equipment
Ten Essential Systems
- Navigation (map & compass)
- Sun protection (sunglasses & sunscreen)
- Insulation (extra clothing)
- Illumination (headlamp/flashlight)
- First-aid supplies
- Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candle)
- Repair kit and tools
- Nutrition (extra food)
- Hydration (extra water)
- Emergency shelter (tent/plastic tube tent/garbage bag)
Trip Reports