Lake Stuart is an inviting lake beneath the fearsome north face of one of Washington's highest and most imposing peaks. Though not as dramatic as nearby Colchuck Lake, Stuart still serves up plenty of nice scenery, including a close-up of the 9415-foot peak that shares its name. The journey is longer than to Colchuck, but much easier due to Stuart's lower elevation and the gentler topography on the way. Stuart is smaller and shallower than Colchuck, too, but warmer-by late summer, warm enough to even splash in. Try that in nearby Colchuck, whose name means "cold water!"

The Lake Stuart Trail starts easy, kicks up a little dust, settles down, then makes one last push, albeit moderate, before emerging in the forested basin housing the aquatic object of your desire. Begin your hike in cool forest, soon entering the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Follow alongside the tumbling and chattering Mountaineer Creek and enjoy an air-conditioning effect thanks to flows of heavy cool air constantly funneling down this tight valley. At about 1.75 miles (elev. 4000 ft) cross Mountaineer Creek on an attractive log bridge. Then begin a short but grueling grunt up sun-kissed slopes of open forest interspersed with slabs of granite.

At 2.5 miles the grade relaxes and a junction is reached (elev. 4500 ft). The trail left leads to Colchuck Lake and is where the majority of hikers heading up this valley end up. Good. Now, you can enjoy your trip to Stuart even more. The way continues up the Mountaineer Creek valley on a near-level course. Soon break out of the cool forest into a brushy meadow, affording a splendid view of an almost-dead-ringer for Mount Stuart, its smaller twin, 8453-foot Argonaut Peak.

Cross the base of a boulder field, returning to forest, this time of the lodgepole pine persuasion. The trail pulls away from the creek, continuing up the wide valley, undulating between forest and meadow, gaining very little elevation en route. Meeting up again with Mountaineer Creek at about 4.5 miles, the way commences a short climb via a series of short switchbacks. With the creek now tumbling beside you, pass through groves of aspen that warrant a return trip in autumn for a golden showing.

At 5 miles reach Lake Stuart (elev. 5065), surrounded by tall timber and tall peaks. Much of the shoreline is rocky and forested, but you can find grassy and sandy spots perfect for sunning and wading. Find a nice spot on the north shore for staring out across the placid waters to imposing Mount Stuart with its hanging glaciers. Consider bringing your fishing pole-the cutthroat are jumping.