Pros & cons
PROS
- Quiet subalpine tarn with crystal-clear water
- Short hike with a pretty waterfall en route
CONS
- Very steep, primitive trail with loose footing and blowdowns
- Bugs can be intense in summer
Overview
PJ Lake is a small, emerald subalpine tarn tucked beneath jagged ridgelines north of Eagle Point. It’s the kind of place that feels wild and forgotten—often quiet even when nearby Hurricane Ridge is shoulder‑to‑shoulder.
The Hike
Don’t be fooled by the mileage. The out‑and‑back clocks roughly 1.5–1.8 miles total, but it drops 600–825 feet in under a mile to reach the lake, then makes you earn it back on the return. The trail is primitive and can be dusty, slippery, narrow, and occasionally overgrown, with fallen trees to navigate. Trekking poles and grippy footwear make a big difference.
What You’ll See
You’ll pass a delicate waterfall and a couple of stream crossings before the forest opens to the lake’s glassy waters. On calm days the clarity is striking—you can often spot trout rising. In late summer, wildflowers dot the meadows, though the waterfall may shrink with the season.
Why Go Here
If you want a quick adventure that actually feels like one, this is it: solitude, a pretty waterfall, cold‑plunge potential, and that pristine tarn setting. Some hikers find the effort high for such a small lake; if you prefer big views for every step, look elsewhere. If you value quiet and a sense of discovery, PJ delivers.
Camping & Fishing Notes
There’s a designated backcountry camping area near the lake with no amenities. Permits are required—check current park rules before you go. The lake is known for trout activity; confirm current fishing regulations with the park before casting.
Road & Conditions
Access is via Obstruction Point Road: steep, winding, and gravel. It is typically closed in winter and can be rough for large vehicles or trailers. Expect no services—no restrooms, no water, no picnic tables.
Best Time to Visit
- Season: Summer to early fall, when Obstruction Point Road is open. Early summer tends to have the best waterfall flow; late summer brings more flowers but fewer cascades.
- Time of day: Mornings or late afternoons for softer light and a cooler climb out.
- Crowds: Often sparse compared to Hurricane Ridge, especially on weekdays.
Where it is
47.9464, -123.4153Tips for P. J. Lake
- 01Bring strong bug spray; mosquitoes and flies can be relentless in summer.
- 02Use trekking poles and grippy shoes—the climb back out is very steep and slick.
- 03Start early for cooler temps and easier parking along the road shoulder.
- 04Expect zero facilities; pack all water or filter at the lake and follow Leave No Trace.
- 05Confirm road status for Obstruction Point Road and any required permits before you go.
Amenities
Near P. J. Lake
All places →All trails →
0.5 mi awayPJ Lake TrailShort, brutally steep drop to a quiet emerald tarn off Hurricane Ridge.Challenging · 1.7 mi · 1.5 hr
1 mi awayHurricane RidgeWind-whipped alpine ridge with huge Olympic Mountain viewsTrailhead · Restroom
2.2 mi awayElk MountainHigh, exposed ridge with big views and regular wildlifeScenic Viewpoint
2.5 mi awayObstruction PointAlpine trailhead at the end of the park’s highest roadTrailhead · Restroom
2.5 mi awayGrand Ridge Trail (Obstruction Point to Deer Park)Lofty, view-soaked ridge traverse with zero shade and zero waterChallenging · 7.5 mi · 5 hr
2.5 mi awayGrand Valley TrailAlpine ridge to lakes classic with big views and marmotsChallenging · 10 mi · 7.5 hr
2.5 mi awayGrand Pass via Grand ValleyBig alpine day to lakes and a sky-high pass with nonstop viewsChallenging · 10 mi · 8 hr
4 mi awayHurricane Ridge Ski AreaTiny, throwback ski hill with huge views and natural powderParking · Restroom
