Reed Lakes Trail

The feel

The hike starts on an old roadbed through mining remains, then climbs steep slopes to a boulder field where your footing matters. A trail emerges from the boulders into alpine terrain with streams and small ponds, and the whole route sits above timberline.

You pass above Lower Reed Lake and a waterfall before the trail ends at Upper Reed Lake, just over 4000 ft. Twin turquoise alpine lakes sit ringed by granite spires, and it is a popular day hike in Hatcher Pass.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 8.6 miles total, 4.3 miles one way, with 2000 to 2200 ft of gain. Old roadbed, steep slopes, then a boulder scramble into alpine terrain above timberline. Rated moderate to hard.

Time

About 5 hours.

Crowds and best time

Popular. Parking is limited and summer weekends are congested.

Parking

The trailhead is on Archangel Road, about mile 2.9 off Hatcher Pass Road. The road is often very rough and high ground clearance is recommended. Beyond the Archangel Creek bridge it is not maintained and very rocky.

Fees and passes

Parking fee required, $5 per vehicle per day or an annual pass. Card pay stations take payment; display the receipt face up on the dashboard.

Dogs

Take care with pets on the boulder field.

Hazards

Boulder field footing. Slick mud, wet ground and a chance of snow in the upper elevations. Do not disturb mining artifacts.

Mingo says

Pick a dry stretch before you commit, because the trail turns to slick mud when wet. Bring layers for higher up.

Before you go

• Budget $5 for parking, or bring an annual pass, and print the receipt for your dashboard.
• Arrive early on a summer weekend, since the lot is small.
• Check conditions with the Hatcher Pass line at (907) 745-8950.
• Bring boots with grip for the boulder field.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.