Blue Lake and Cutthroat Lake WA

9/16/26

For 3 days, I took a mini road trip with 5 buddies from Bellingham, where we all go to school, to Winthrop along the scenic Highway 20. Along the way, we went on two hikes: Cutthroat Lake and Blue Lake, both accessed from HW 20.

Cutthroat Lake: After spending the morning and early afternoon hiding from the rain in Winthrop, we retraced our steps toward Washington Pass and turned onto a paved FSR to the trailhead. From there, we hit the trail as it slowly ascended through a stunning alpine valley, with cliffs and the rugged Hinkhouse Peak surrounding us, shrouded in clouds. This hike was little more than a stroll through the woods, and after a few minor creek crossings, we arrived at Cutthroat Lake. Cutthroat Lake is a small green lake situated beneath the many upper cliffs of Cutthroat Peak. The weather matched the scenery, as the murky green waters paired nicely with the overcast skies and gloomy atmosphere. This hike is definitely worth a visit, as it lets you escape the massive crowds at the far more popular Maple Pass and Blue Lake.

Cutthroat Lake

A moody day

All smiles

Blue Lake: After spending the night at Early Winters Campground just outside of Mazama, we made our way up to Washington Pass and took a quick stop at the lookout before rolling into the packed Blue Lake trailhead just after 12:30. The gorgeous weather brought in the crowds even on a Tuesday, but we found a parking spot and got on our merry way. After following the highway for .5 miles, we left it behind as the trail steepened and views opened up. The iconic Liberty Bell Mountain stood out, its intimidating face towering behind us. As we approached the lake, we began to break out, and the trail got noticeably rockier. Definitely something to take note of if you're a beginner. Just as my buddy Jack was getting a bit sick of this whole hiking thing, we reached the majestic Blue Lake.

Liberty Bell Moutain

Blue Lake

Fall colors

What a day

While Cutthroat Lake was cool, Blue Lake is another level. The small blue lake sits at nearly 6,300’ beneath ridgelines that rise 1,000’ above. Even with the crowds, we found a private spot along the shore to rest. Only Jack and I were brave enough to take a dip in the ice-cold water. Refreshing, but definitely makes the heart flutter a bit. After spending well over an hour in the sun, we made the short trip back to the car. Overall, this hike is well worth the hike and crowds. A special shoutout to the Wednesday crowd of 9/16, some of the most talkative social people I’ve ever run into on a trail; love to see it.

Cutthroat Lake Stats: 4 Miles - 530’ Gain

Blue Lake Stats: 5 Miles - 1,100’ Gain