Olallie Lake

A popular and easily accessible destination in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Olallie Lake sits at the end of a 3 mile hike that ascends 1,150 feet. The first 2 miles are comprised of mildly graded switchbacks that lead through tall cedars to Talapus Lake, which is a good place to stop for a snack or a swim. As you continue on toward Olallie Lake, the switchbacks get slightly steeper and the underbrush becomes more lush and dense. In spring and summer there are many patches of tall beargrass flowers, which give off a sweet, honey-like scent along the trail. The first sighting of Olallie Lake appears on the right just a mile from Talapus, and there is a flat space right next to the water for a picnic and a swim in the pristine, turquoise shallows of the lake. Farther along the west side the lake, the trail takes a turn upward and leads to overlooks of the lake surrounded by its towering basin walls. There are several campsites nestled into the side of the embankment for those wishing to stay at the lake overnight. Gray jays and chipmunks dart in and out of view, though it is best not to feed them and to respect The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace while backcountry camping. Note: You might want to bring bug repellent, as there are mosquitos around the lake. Also, dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash.