Soda Peaks Lake Trail #133

Soda Peaks Lake Trail #133 is a strenuous out-and-back hike in Washington’s Trapper Creek Wilderness (Gifford Pinchot National Forest). Expect a climb into old-growth forest and steep hiking with occasional ruggedness on loose rock and downed-timber obstacles as you work your way toward Soda Peaks Lake, a glacial-carved cirque lake at 3,784 ft.

The route starts at Soda Peaks Trailhead and climbs east into Trapper Creek Wilderness to a saddle. From there, the trail switchbacks down toward Soda Peaks Lake, skirts the lake’s north side, traverses the southern portion of the wilderness, then heads back to connect with Trapper Creek Trail near the southeast wilderness boundary.

Treat this as a hard, high-effort day: ~10 miles out-and-back with about 3,028 ft of elevation gain, typically taking around 6.5 to 7 hours at a steady pace. In addition to the grade, be ready for steep descents that can feel rough on knees.

Plan around seasons. Lower-elevation snow typically melts out by mid-May, while higher areas melt out by mid-July; snow may persist in spots on north-facing slopes. Mosquitoes and large flies can be thick in summer, and snow may linger into early summer.

Pass and permits are part of the logistics. Wilderness permit is required and is free and self-issued at the trailhead. A Recreation Pass is required at the Trapper Creek Trailhead area for access/parking.

Getting to the trailhead involves a drive on Forest Road 54: travel 6.7 miles on Forest Road 54 to the Soda Peaks Trailhead at the upper end of Soda Peaks Lake Trail #133. The trailhead has parking for about 4 vehicles; restrooms and potable water aren’t provided on-site.

More information: Visitor information, Visitor information, Soda Peaks Lake (Skamania County) | Washington Department of Fish ...