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You can visit Ross Lake in the spring or even the winter during low snow years. The big downside is that the lake water level is very low. But in spring, the snow should be melted and the camps are superb, furnished with tent platforms, bear boxes, fire pits and bathrooms. They are free too, but you do need to stop at the Marblemount Ranger Station and fill out a self-issue permit on the front porch. This page has information using access by boat. Foot access is also possible by hiking down the Ross Dam Trail where highway 20 is usually gated in winter. Then, walk across the dam and hike the Big Beaver Trail to Green Point Camp, Cougar Island Camp, Pumpkin Mountain Camp or Big Beaver Camp.

Elevations: 1,208 to 1,603 (Spillway elevations)
Elevation Gain: 500 feet up and a 300 foot loss down to Ross Lake
Distance: 1.2 miles on good (but steep) road for wheeled carts

Washington Kayaking

Kayak Washington

Diablo Lake To Ross Lake In Spring

For boat access, as in summer, park at the parking area at Colonial Creek Campground on Diablo Lake. Then paddle up Thunder Arm to the main lake, then up the Diablo Lake Gorge to the base of the Ross Dam. The Diablo Lake water level is usually kept full to provide motor access to the Ross dam from Diablo Lake Resort.

Low water levels make spotting camps a bit tougher. Know your maps well and where the camps are located, but usually you can see the sign or a dock. There are times you could easily have the entire like to yourself.

Diablo Lake Access

The road is well graded but can be steep in places. Kayaks or canoes on wheels will still need some effort to push/pull up and over. The service that transports boats is likely not available, contact Ross Lake Resort for information. The portage really does not take to long if you are in reasonable shape. Near the roads highest point, the road splits, one road drops to the dam while the other requires a bit more up before the big drop down into Ross Lake.

The Portage

Ross Lake