West Fork Foss Trail
West Fork Foss Trail (Trail 1064) runs out of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness approach at the West Fork Foss Lakes trailhead and works its way to a chain of alpine lakes—typical day-hike goals include Trout Lake, with longer options continuing toward Copper Lake, Little Heart Lake, and Big Heart Lake. The trail begins on a moderate climb, but the character changes quickly once you leave Trout Lake behind and head into the steeper, rockier basin terrain.
The early miles trend easier through forested ground, then the route becomes increasingly difficult with fast elevation gain. A key loading point for many hikers is the push from Trout Lake onward: it’s described as gaining nearly 2,000 feet in about two miles, and the trail is repeatedly rocky as it climbs and descends around lake outlets and ridges.
Access is managed for hikers and wilderness travel in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The trail is hiker-only and has wilderness regulations; camp only in established campsites and stay on established trails. Group size is limited (maximum 12), and dogs must be leashed.
Water availability on the upper trail is limited: there’s no water available on the section that runs up to Trout Lake and through the higher portions described for this route. Plan accordingly for filtering/stocking before you reach the steep climb where the route becomes more demanding.
If you’re targeting the route as a long day or a multi-night backpack, expect a sustained effort rather than a simple out-and-back. The lake sequence gives natural turn-around points (Trout, Copper, Big Heart), and the larger lakes also provide camping options when you continue past earlier milestones.
Parking requires a recreation pass for the West Fork Foss Lakes trailhead. Wilderness permits are self-issued for day and overnight use during the May 15 to October 31 window, obtained at the trailheads.
More information: Visitor information, West Fork Foss River and Lakes - Washington Trails Association, Jade Lake via the Necklace Valley Trail, Skykomish, Washington