Kelcema Lake

North Cascades

This short lake trail feels a little different than many of its cousins on the Mountain Loop. It is a great place to cool off on a warm day. Or camp at one of the sites near the lake for your family's first overnight adventure.

This hike starts out in a marshy meadow that will welcome you with an amazing flower show early season. Then as the trail bends into the trees it takes on a unique feeling. Thanks to the exposed glacial bedrock you feel like you are exploring among the Alaskan Cedars on a stone path laid especially for your family.

In roughly half mile, just after a small incline, there will be a viewpoint on your left. Here you can admire the outflow of the lake, while the bedrock has broken up you can still see how this glacier rock was once a large intact piece of earth. After appreciating the geologic history continue down the path and you will reach the lake in minutes.

Spend the day exploring along the lake shore and playing in the water. This old Boy Scout camp has a number of camping sites and a backcountry toilet.

Kelcema Lake

Map & Directions

Getting There

From the Verlot ranger station continue 12 miles and take a left onto Deer Lake Road. Drive the road (FR 4052) for just over 4 miles to the trailhead.