Hike of the Week: Lake Valhalla

A heavenly spot indeed-Lake Valhalla sits at the base of Lichtenberg Mountain

Lake Valhalla

No slain souls here-just renewed ones





by Craig Romano
photo by Craig Romano
produced by Michael Fagin

October 14, 2005

Quick Facts
Location: Henry M. Jackson Wilderness, Wenatchee National Forest
Land Agency: National Forest Service
Roundtrip: 11.0 miles

Cumulative Elevation gain: 1,500 feet
Access: From Everett follow US 2 to Stevens Pass. Park in lot on the north side of the highway. Trail (Pacific Crest Trail) begins near a utility substation.
Notes: Northwest Forest Pass Required ($5 day/$30 annual
Green Trails Map: Benchmark Mtn -No 144


In Norse Mythology, Valhalla was the heaven of the Vikings; a great hall in Asgard where slain warriors chosen by Odin himself ascended to. Lake Valhalla in the Henry M. Jackson Wilderness is a place where tired and weary souls can choose to ascend to. And upon arriving to the shores of this large backcountry lake, wayward pilgrims will quickly realize-it is indeed a heavenly place.
Depart on your voyage to Valhalla via Stevens Pass. By way of the Pacific Crest Trail, head north into the rolling and rugged Central Cascades. The way starts out easy enough by utilizing an old rail bed. The pass was long abandoned for rail travel. Consistently heavy snowfall and severe avalanches forced the railroad underground. In 1929, a 7.8 mile tunnel was completed through the Cascades below Stevens Pass. It was the longest railroad tunnel in the western hemisphere when it opened.
Skirt slopes of avalanche-thinned forest and after about two miles enter dark groves of old-growth. Enter the Jackson Wilderness and continue through more stately stands of old-growth forest. Climb a little, pass through a series of soggy meadows, and then crest a small ridge. Now drop three hundred feet-twinkling Lake Valhalla rests directly below.
The lake’s quiet shoreline makes for a fine place to lounge the day away. But, if you’re inclined to further explore the region-carry on past the lake and climb to a small saddle above it. Find a boot-beaten path that veers off north (left). Now, follow this trail through berry patches to the 5,747-foot summit of Mount McCausland.
From this small peak an impressive view of the surrounding countryside can be had. Lake Valhalla sparkles below. A divine sight and site-indeed!