Lena Lake

Backpackers planning on staying overnight have 20+ campsite options around the west and north side of the lake, most with fire rings. There are a few group-size sites on the west side along the water. After crossing Lena Creek on the north side of the lake, there are fewer sites along the water, but many sites north of the trail going up the hillside. At the trail split to The Brothers Trail, if you stay to the right there is another small group-sized campsite right on the water.The trail to Lena Lake is well maintained and is a moderate grade with long switchbacks. Please stay on the trail. Cutting switchbacks will save only seconds, while the destroyed vegetation will take years to recover. This is a National Recreation Trail and is heavily used during the summer months. Beyond Lower Lena Lake, the trails are much steeper and receive less maintenance.

The lake was formed 1,300 years ago when a rockslide blocked the south end of the valley, damning Lena Creek. The creek now leaves the south end of the lake through an underground channel that surfaces further south.