"I would probably recommend this trip to a friend."
Locals won’t be pleased that I’m blabbing about Independence Lake. This little-known destination is an easy, one-mile hike gaining practically no elevation. It’s like nearby Kelcema Lake, in that regard, but when you reach Independence Lake, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere.
The trail starts at around 3500 feet and goes through old-growth forest, to reach the tree-lined shores of Independence Lake in less than a mile. This lake lives up to the cliche phrase, "emerald-green alpine lake." Planning to take the family and dogs backpacking? This is a candidate, just outside the Boulder River Wilderness, with nice campsites at the north end of the lake.
If sitting on a rock enjoying the scenery is too easy for you, hike on up the trail another 1.3 miles, to a ridge 1000 feet above the lake. This sunny section of trail traverses steep slopes in the open, so plan to do it early in the day. If it’s clear, you’ll see the peaks of Devils Thumb, Whitehorse, Three Fingers, and Big Four, as your reward. From here, the trail descends 1.2 miles into the basin of North Lake, a larger lake with a rocky shore.
Getting there: Even the drive to the trailhead is pretty. Drive the Mountain Loop Highway from Interstate 5 to the winter closure point at Deer Creek. Continue about two more miles, past the turnoff for Big Four Ice Caves, and take the next left on Coal Lake Road, Forest Road 4060. If you cross the bridge over Perry Creek, you’ve passed your turn by a quarter mile. Drive about four dusty miles to the trailhead. Northwest Forest Pass required. Dogs are welcome on this trail.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions.
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