Twin Lakes (Wenatchee)

Twin Lakes is a nice early season hike in the Lake Wenatchee Area. I thoroughly enjoyed walking the 3.5 mile trail to the lakes on Sunday. The weather was glorious and the scenery stunning at times.

This trail packs in a lot of scenery in a few short miles. Starting from the trailhead at Napeequa Crossing Campground, the trail makes a short but brisk climb to a saddle next to a rocky point -be sure to take the side trail to see the great view over the White River valley toward Mount David.

Then the trail descends back to the level of the Napeequa River, losing most of the elevation that it initially gained. Now on the valley floor, tt passes by a beaver pond where there is an impressive view of the huge peaks and cliffs guarding the entrance to the trailess Napeequa gorge. Next, the trail passes through a cedar grove with some huge trees.

After an exciting crossing of the raging Twin Lakes Creek on a wet log, the trail begins a steep climb. For much of the way, it ascends a steep-sided gorge right next to the loud waters of the cascading creek. Finally, the trail gentles out, and you arrive at the peaceful shore of lower Twin Lake. The trail rounds its north shore, then crosses a short span of forest to arrive at the much larger Upper Twin Lake. Here there is an elaborate cabin and a weir on the lake's outlet stream to catch spawning fish. A platform atop the fish trap makes a fine place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

All snow is gone from the Twin Lakes trail now. Trilium and Glacier Lillies are abundant. Some blowdown on the trail. Section of trail in the gorge have collapsed and need repair.