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Hamilton Lake is a hard, rewarding out-and-back that climbs from the Emerald Lake parking lot to a turquoise alpine lake tucked in a rugged cirque. Expect a sustained ascent and big scenery payoffs with far fewer people than down at Emerald Lake.
What to expect
- Distance is typically listed around 9.8–11 km total (about 6–6.8 miles) with roughly 800–850 m of elevation gain. Plan on around 5 hours round trip if you keep moving; many hikers take longer to linger at the lake.
- The trail starts gently toward Hamilton Falls, then settles into steady switchbacks through a lush, rainforest-like zone of cedar, hemlock, and Douglas fir. Higher up it transitions to subalpine spruce-fir, crosses summer flowered avalanche slopes, and finally breaks into rocky alpine terrain before the lake.
- Hamilton Lake sits in a classic glacial cirque—think cold wind, sheer walls, and brilliant water. It feels wonderfully removed from the bustle around Emerald Lake.
Need to know
- This is a true climb with very few flat sections. Strong legs and sturdy boots matter here.
- Bring plenty of water (there’s no reliable source after the first kilometer) and real insect repellent—mosquitoes and horseflies can be relentless in summer.
- Bears are reported in the area; carry bear spray and make noise. The trail is generally well marked, but above treeline keep an eye out for cairns and faint tread.
- Weather turns quickly at the lake—pack layers and a wind shell even on warm days.
Season and timing
- Best season is late June to early September; snow can linger on upper slopes earlier, and early fall storms can dust the top with slick snow. Wildflowers peak in mid-summer. For quieter vibes, start early or go on a weekday.
Extensions (advanced)
- Strong, experienced parties sometimes continue beyond the lake toward a higher saddle, or use the trail as an approach to scrambles on nearby peaks. These are unmarked, steeper routes—treat them as mountaineering-lite and go only if you know what you’re doing.
Getting there
- Start from the south end of the Emerald Lake parking lot and follow signs past Hamilton Falls toward Hamilton Lake.
Pros
- Lower trail passes through a rare interior rainforest feel before breaking into alpine
- Noticeably quieter than Emerald Lake despite starting from the same lot
Cons
- Relentless grade with little respite
- Bugs can be fierce in summer and there’s no reliable water after the first kilometer
Parking
Park at Emerald Lake’s main lot; the trail starts at the south end near the Hamilton Falls sign.
Caution
Steep, sustained climb with avalanche slopes; lingering snow early season; cold winds at the lake; bears reported—carry spray; intense mosquitoes/horseflies in summer; limited water beyond the first kilometer; watch cairns and faint tread above treeline.
