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Quick Facts

Location: US 2 Index

Land Agency: National Forest Service

Roundtrip: 7.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,900 feet

Green Trails Map: Index WA- No. 142

Contact: Skykomish Ranger District: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest (360) 677-2414; www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs

Special Note: Northwest Forest Pass required

Access: From Everett follow US 2 east for 35 miles to just before bridge crossing the Skykomish River (near Milepost 35). Turn right onto Mount Index Road proceeding .4 mile. Turn right on spur-road signed “Lake Serene Trail 1068,” reaching trailhead in 500 feet.

Towering and formidable, Mount Index is the most awesome and fiercest sight along US 2. But, softening the mountain’s stark appearance is Bridal Veil Falls. Emanating from beneath Index’s austere crags, the tiered and tumbling cataract drapes over granite slabs. And above the falls nestled beneath those austere spires is a beautiful lake. Both the falls and the lake make worthy and satisfying hiking destinations.

The trail starts on an old road lined with mossy maples and alders. Gradually ascending a thickly forested slope the trail reaches a junction at 1.7 miles (el. 1,200 feet). The trail right heads to Bridal Veil Falls. A steep half mile away, just follow the roar. Head left for Lake Serene dropping a bit into a damp ravine. Here, cross Bridal Veil Creek on a well-built bridge; then begin climbing. On solid tread that occasionally utilizes stone steps and rock cribbing, the trail steeply ascends. But this trail is a delight to hike compared to the old trail. That one caused more than a few injuries and rescues, prompting the Forest Service to close it. In the late 1990s this new trail allowed hikers a much safer and saner approach to the lake.

After a long sweep east and a long sweep west, the trail skirts under, over and around some cliffs to gain 1,300 feet in about 1.5 miles. Enjoy fine views of the valley below as well as out to Ragged Ridge and other peaks of the newly minted Wild Sky Wilderness. Eventually reach Lake Serene tucked in a tight basin beneath the ramparts and parapets of fortress Index. Stare straight up those 3,000 vertical foot stark walls—not serene at all! But when the basin is calm, those imposing rock faces delicately reflect upon the lake’s surface. Now, that’s serene and quite a sight!

For information on lodging and other attractions near Lake Serene, visit www.snohomish.org. For more information on trails around Lake Serene check out my Day Hiking Central Cascades Book (Mountaineers Books).