No. 132 Picture Lake

Picture Lake at Heather Meadows
Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
Distance from Seattle: 135 miles (2hrs 45min()
MAP IT

The aptly named Picture Lake inside the Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest at Heather Meadows offers photographers of all skill levels memorable and stunning images of this nature scape. The 5 acres alpine lake at 4,200 elevation features 360 degree views of mountain back drops, wildflowers and colorful plant foliage and paved path that circles the lake making easily accessible for all visitors to enjoy.
The snow covered cap of Mount Shuksan to the east mirrored in Picture Lake is one of the most photographed mountain scenes in North America. In the morning light you get reflections of Mount Herman from the east side of the lake and in the evening light Mount Shuksan is the centerpiece to this strikingly beautiful landscape. You will find interpretive sign panels and a viewing scope installed during the summer months on a paved viewpoint. A platform on the edge of the lake provides a resting spot.
Bring extra batteries for your camera since the 90 min drive east of Interstate I-5 curves and ascends from the valley floor to the alpine area driving past flowing rivers, cascading  creeks and waterfalls just off of the road way. In colder temperatures battery performance is degraded, so by having extra battery and memory cards you will be able to capture the many vistas of the National Forest.

A recreation pass is required in the Heather Meadows Recreation Fee Area

Reflection of Mount Shuksan

Field and Wildflowers of Heather Meadows

Wildflowers in Bloom

Fall Colors at Heather Meadows

Heather Meadows

Mount Herman Reflection

Boardwalk Pier at Picture Lake

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