Boulder Lake — Friday, Nov. 21, 2025

I headed out to Boulder Lake hoping to explore a new area that might be snow-free this time of year, and it absolutely was. I did not see a single patch of snow on the trail, although the higher peaks around the lake had a light dusting on them.

I arrived just before 9 AM and found the parking lot empty, except for a Snohomish County PUD crew working on what looks like construction for a real vault toilet to replace the sani-cans. One important note: the trailhead sign still says the trail is closed, but this is outdated. The damaged bridge has been replaced and the trail is fully open. The kiosk should be updated to reflect current conditions.

Given the empty lot, I did not expect to see anyone, and I did not until a couple of miles from the trailhead on my return.

The hike begins with about four miles on an old converted roadbed, which makes for fast and easy travel. There are numerous bridges, creeks, and small waterfalls along the way, with lush vegetation throughout the forest.

Once you reach the actual trail to Boulder Lake, the hiking remains pleasant, just at a slightly slower pace. The WTA crews have done excellent work here, and based on the flagging I passed, more improvements appear to be in progress. There were a few downed trees to step over but nothing difficult.

Before settling on a boulder by the shore for lunch, I wandered through the campground and quickly regretted not planning an overnight. The campsites are genuinely lovely, each with a grated fire ring, a gravel tent pad, and even a bench or two. A well-maintained composting toilet sits up the hill past the campsites. There is no sign for it, but it is easy to find.

I saw only a little wildlife: a couple of red-headed woodpeckers and a squirrel or two. The vegetation was still vibrant for late November, and the mushrooms were out in force.

All in all, it was a peaceful and rewarding late fall hike with no snow and very little company.