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Crow Lake Way Trail

Highway 410 Trips
Although you may not hike all the way to Crow Lake, this trails traverses a high ridge in route that offers splendid views and a decent destination. The real advantage of this day hike is that the trail and ridge melt out earlier than other trails due to the southern exposure. The Crow Lake Way trail also offers access to backcountry lakes in the Norse Peak Wilderness. For climbers, the trail highpoint is the departure point for Fifes Peaks and Fifes Ridge summits. There are large sections of trail that are burned so expect lots of sun and little shade.
Access:
Drive 12.2 miles east of Chinook Pass on SR-410 and turn north into the parking area. There are two parking areas, the first is for the Fifes Peak Viewpoint and the second for the Crow Lake Way Trailhead.
The Trail:
Hiking Distance: 4 miles one-way to highpoint
Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet
Access: Paved
The start of the Crow Lake Way Trail has been moved around a bit due to washouts after the huge Norse Peak Fire in 2017. Go through the horse camp and take the Pleasant Valley Loop trail until it crosses a bridge. Look for the trail on the right just after the bridge but this may change. When the trail gets going, it is 2.5 miles up 28 switchbacks and then another 1.5 miles to reach the highpoint saddle at 5,850 feet. The saddle is a good turn-around for a day hike. Those seeking an overnight trip can continue down the trail to Sheepherder and Crow Lakes.
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Fifes Peaks Viewpoint at the trailhead before the 2017 fire.
View up to the cascades crest.
First view of Mt. Rainier.
Looking up the Pleasant Valley with American Ridge on the left.
Lone tree with American Ridge behind.
Some of the forest on the upper ridge did not burn.
Peak 6,304 to the west.
crow lake way trail map
On the ridge.
Trail highpoint with easy slopes above if you want more views.
Trail highpoint after climbing Fifes Peaks, the bad weather was moving in.