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CHS 2 Hike

Field trip: Conditioning Hiking Series

CHS 2 Hike - Talapus Lake Trail

Mason Lake via Talapas, Olallie, and Rainbow Lakes on the Talapus Lake, Pratt Lake trail, and Mt Defiance Trail. CHS hike led at a CHS 2 pace (2.0-3.0 mph)

Contacts

Justin Bland
Justin Bland
Primary Leader
Ericka Mitterndorfer
Ericka Mitterndorfer
Co-Leader
  • Moderate/Strenuous
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 14.6 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 3,087 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 4,580 ft
  • Pace: 2.0-3.0 mph

Hike Info: Sun-drenched ridgelines, blooming trillium, and sparkling alpine waters define this fun Summertime trail. We'll traverse steep pitches and open meadows en route to Mason Lake, a popular weekend camping destination.

We'll start on Talapus Lake Trail, at Ollalie Lake connect to Pratt Lake trail. Once we pass Rainbow Lake, we'll join Mt Defiance Trail at Sir Richard's Pond. We'll rest and snack at Mason Lake, before returning back the way we came.

Mason Lake is a small but deep alpine pool populated with rainbow trout.

This hike will include an hour of silent hiking to better tune into our senses and surroundings.

Park and Ride Meet: 6:15 am at Preston P&R. Exit 22 on I-90.

Trailhead Meet: 7am. Talapus Lake Trailhead. Exit 45 on I-90. National Forest Rd 9030. 

Parking Pass Needed:  Northwest Forest Pass or America The Beautiful National Park Service Pass

Join us after the hike for lunch at South Fork North Bend.

Route/Place

Talapus Lake Trail

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Ten Essential Systems

  1. Navigation (map & compass)
  2. Sun protection (sunglasses & sunscreen)
  3. Insulation (extra clothing)
  4. Illumination (headlamp/flashlight)
  5. First-aid supplies
  6. Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candle)
  7. Repair kit and tools
  8. Nutrition (extra food)
  9. Hydration (extra water)
  10. Emergency shelter (tent/plastic tube tent/garbage bag)
Trip Reports