Hiked up to the lake for lunch. The road to the trail is narrow and one lane, thank goodness we didn't run into anyone trying to come down!  Very bumpy at times but were able to navigate.  The trail is all uphill but absolutely gorgeous, took it slow and easy.  A few downed trees over the trail that we were able to over or under. The trail mostly runs along the creek which makes for a great view. Snow still near the top but we were so close to the lake that we were able to find our way.  Plan was to sit by the lake and eat but the lake is surrounded by growth so there isn't a shoreline to access.  We walked to the right and found a tiny beach (and campsite) so the dogs could cool off in the lake.

Blue Lake Hiker trail #274 to Blue Lake in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The trailhead is at the end of the forest road 171, which starts as soon as you leave the paved road FS 23. This Road 171 is very narrow and often has fallen logs that you might have to move/cut. Only good for small SUVs/cars.

This hike is great, even in the winter, crampons are needed when hiking the steep switchbacks in December/Jan/Feb/March. Snowshoes are also needed in the winter months.

I was alone with my dog on the trail, it was fabulous, so very good!

First time visiting this beautiful spot, the trail is very narrow in some spots. Few mosquitoes in shady muddy areas (which is to be expected) not too bad at all.  There were none up at the lake. Hiked with my husband and our two dogs, trail had several down trees to go over. The stone steps were the challenge for me. The road up was narrow and a lot of overgrowth hitting top of the roof. Great day hike! 

Took a gamble on hiking the ORV trail figuring that the way would be clear, motorized traffic would be minimal this early in the season, the trail wouldn't be too rutted yet, and snow would plentiful enough to keep bikes away from the lake and scored a grand slam. There's a solid half-mile of snow starting about two miles out and then it gets deep again right about when the trail meets Blue Lake Creek. I totally lost the trail at that point, but if you stick by the creek, you'll be fine, and then the lake itself is totally thawed-out and snow-free. I brought spikes and didn't end up using them, but I felt reassured knowing I had them. Not a lot of wildflowers yet, but soon.

Took the narrow 1.5 mile FR 2300-171 to trailhead and luckily didn't encounter anyone, including for entire hike so if you like solitude this trail provides it. 

Multiple trees to step/climb over and one blow down portion requiring to get off the trail for just a short duration. Steeper parts are towards the beginning, with some decent drop-offs.  

Trail provides cool rock formations, beautiful forest and lake.