Sheep Lake to Sourdough Gap Trail

Sheep Lake to Sourdough Gap is a high-country Pacific Crest Trail out-and-back from Chinook Pass. Published estimates range from 6 to 6.6 miles round trip. The more detailed leg distances add up to about 6.6 miles, while some route listings round the walk to 6 miles. Allow around four hours for a moderate walk with roughly 1,000 feet of climbing.

From the east end of the PCT lot, the trail traverses a hillside above SR 410. It is fairly level overall, with open views into the Rainier Fork of the American River valley and glimpses of Mount Rainier and Naches Peak. The PCT then turns north, leaving the road behind, and weaves through pockets of forest and small meadows.

The climb eases as the route enters the lake basin. Sheep Lake appears beside a rocky outcrop where hikers stop by the water; there is also a small beach where wading is possible. The subalpine meadows are known for summer wildflowers, especially in July and August, though bloom timing varies. The route skirts the lake before the harder part begins.

Beyond the lake, the trail climbs the valley wall more steadily to Sourdough Gap, a rocky saddle at about 6,400 feet. The view opens over Sheep Lake and the South Cascades, with Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens visible on clear days; Placer Lake and Norse Peak lie to the north. For a photo, frame Sheep Lake below from the saddle to show how the basin sits under the ridge. The PCT continues beyond the gap toward Crystal Lakes, but that extension is not part of this out-and-back.

If you want the lake without the steepest climb, turn back at Sheep Lake for about 3.7 miles round trip. Continuing to Sourdough Gap adds roughly 2.8 miles of walking and the best overlook of the basin; return the same way to the Chinook Pass lot.