Pros & cons
PROS
- Gorgeous alpine basin with big High Divide and Mount Olympus views
- Designated backcountry campsites with a simple toilet
CONS
- Long, steep approach (roughly 8.4–9.4 miles one-way, 3,000–4,000 ft gain)
- Overnight permits are required and book up in peak season
Overview
Lunch Lake is the scenic heart of the Seven Lakes Basin—an alpine cirque dotted with tarns, meadows, and boulder fields. It’s remote, wild, and undeniably beautiful, which is why backpackers often anchor their High Divide trips here.
Why it stands out
From camp you get that classic basin panorama and, on clear days, sweeping looks toward Mount Olympus and glaciated peaks. Summer wildflowers light up the meadows, and the night sky is the real deal thanks to zero light pollution.
Getting there
Access is hike-in only from the Sol Duc side. Expect a strenuous push: roughly 8.4–9.4 miles one-way and 3,000–4,000 feet of gain. Many routes pass Sol Duc Falls on the way—a worthy bonus before you climb into the basin.
Camping and permits
Lunch Lake is a designated backcountry camping area with about 11 marked sites and a simple backcountry toilet. You’ll need an Olympic National Park wilderness permit, and in summer those go fast. Bear canisters are required; store all food properly.
Conditions to expect
Trails here are steep and rocky in places, with some exposed stretches on the High Divide. Weather turns quickly—rain, wind, even summer snow are all possible. Bugs can be fierce in early to mid-summer. Late season note: between Heart Lake and Lunch Lake there may be no reliable water; top off before committing to that section.
Wildlife
Black bears are commonly seen in the basin; you may also spot deer, marmots, and plenty of high-country birds. Give wildlife space and keep a clean camp.
Best time to visit
June through October is the standard window, with snow lingering into early summer. Weekdays are quieter; permits are easier midweek and in the shoulder season. For photos, aim for golden hour when the basin glows and winds often calm. Clear nights are excellent for stargazing.
Worth it?
If you’re up for the climb, yes—Lunch Lake delivers the classic Olympic high-country experience with a rewarding basin camp and big-mountain views.
Where it is
47.9157, -123.7834Tips for Lunch Lake
- 01Start early—most parties take a full day to reach the basin.
- 02Carry a bear canister and know how to use it; bears are common.
- 03Top off water before the Heart Lake–Lunch Lake stretch late season.
- 04Bring trekking poles for the steep, rocky sections and descents.
- 05Aim for weekdays or shoulder season to improve your permit odds.
Amenities
Near Lunch Lake
All places →All trails →
0.5 mi awaySeven Lakes BasinAlpine lake basin with huge High Divide views and prime backcountry campsCampground
0.7 mi awaySol Duc LakeQuiet alpine cirque lake with reflections and starry skies
1.2 mi awayHoh LakeRemote alpine lake with solitude, wildflowers, and High Divide viewsRestroom · Campground
2.3 mi awayHeart LakeHeart-shaped alpine lake tucked below the High DivideCampground · Scenic Viewpoint
3.6 mi awayHigh Divide TrailRainforest-to-ridge loop with lakes, bears, and Mount Olympus viewsChallenging · 19 mi · 11.6 hr
3.6 mi awaySeven Lakes Basin / High Divide LoopIconic ridge and lake loop with Mount Olympus front and centerChallenging · 19 mi · 11 hr
3.6 mi awaySol Duc River TrailClassic rainforest to Sol Duc Falls, then on to wild alpine countryChallenging · 17 mi · 9 hr
3.6 mi awayLunch Lake TrailBig day to a sapphire alpine lake off the High DivideChallenging · 15.3 mi · 9 hr
