Bertha May and Granite Lakes

South Cascades

Visit several charming lakes just south of Mount Rainier National Park using a pleasant little trail. Granite Lake is a beautiful place for a dip, while Bertha May and Cora Lake offer good fishing.

The lakes in this area are accessible via several roads, though the driving directions below take you to an access point along the Teeley Creek Trail, where you can see the most water for the fewest miles on trail, great for kids or beginning hikers. Visit Pothole Lake first, less than half of a mile from your parking spot, then climb upwards towards Bertha May while munching on huckleberries (if they're in season).

From there, head up to Granite Lake, a large alpine lake perfect for swimming in on hot days. This is a good turnaround point for day hikers and families, or you can press on a further two and a half miles to Cora Lake.

If you decide to head to Cora, you'll follow the trail as it winds below the impressive High Rock (crowned by a lookout) and around its eastern ridgeline, coming to a junction with the Big Creek trail. Take the left fork and switchback down half a mile to Cora Lake, where you can enjoy fishing before heading back the way you came.

Bertha May and Granite Lakes

Map & Directions

Getting There

From Elbe, drive Hwy 706 east for 10 miles. Turn south onto Skate Creek Road and drive this for about 5 miles. Make another right onto Road 84 and drive it for about one and a half miles before turning right yet again onto Road 8410. This road is rough, not passable for most passenger cars. Stay on 8410 for 3.5 miles to the trailhead.