Frater Lake offers a versatile trail system best known for its winter groomed loops. Open year-round, the trails provide various outdoor activities for nature lovers. From December through March, it becomes a non-motorized SnoPark, perfect for Nordic skiing on groomed trails. During the rest of the year, the system is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use, making it a prime spot for year-round outdoor adventures.
Location: Frater Lake, near Highway 20, Washington
- Trail System: A series of loop trails
- Distance:
- Tiger Loop: 1.8 miles
- Coyote Loop: 4.8 miles
- Lake Leo Trail: 2.8 miles
- Lions Tail Trail: 1.7 miles
- Best for: Winter sports (Nordic skiing), hiking, mountain biking, equestrian use
- Dogs: Leashed
- Open Year-Round
Trail Features
- Winter Trails: In winter, the trails are groomed for Nordic skiing, making it a popular spot for cross-country skiers. Snowshoers are asked to stay off the ski tracks to preserve the trails for skiers.
- Loop Trails: The trail system includes a mix of easy to moderately difficult loops:
- Tiger Loop (1.8 miles): Follows the southern and eastern shores of Frater Lake, ideal for easy to moderate hiking.
- Coyote Loop (4.8 miles): A more challenging loop, best hiked in a clockwise direction.
- Lake Leo Trail (2.8 miles) and Lions Tail Trail (1.7 miles): Shorter, scenic loops with great views of the lake and surrounding areas.
- Summer Activities: Once the snow melts, the trails open for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian activities.
- SnoPark: From December to March, Frater Lake’s trailhead operates as a SnoPark, where visitors can access the groomed trails for Nordic skiing.
Additional Amenities
- Warming Hut: Located on the northwest side of Frater Lake, this cabin offers a comfortable rest stop year-round. Overnight stays are allowed for up to two nights.
- Overnight Stays: The warming hut is open for overnight stays, though limited to two-night stays.
- Camping: Nearby campgrounds at Lake Gillette and Lake Thomas are open during the summer season, while the privately owned Beaver Lodge Resort offers winter accommodations.
Tips
- Grooming Schedule: Trails are groomed weekly in winter, depending on snow conditions. Be sure to check trail conditions before setting out.
- Trail Etiquette: Snowshoers should avoid stepping in the groomed ski tracks, and hikers are encouraged to wear snowshoes in winter to protect the trails and prevent safety hazards for skiers.
- Elevation Changes: Most trails are gentle, but the Coyote Loop and Lions Tail Trail have steeper sections that may require more effort.
Conclusion
The Frater Lake Trail System offers year-round outdoor experiences, from Nordic skiing in the winter to hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian adventures in warmer months. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful day by the lake or taking on a more challenging loop, this trail system provides something for everyone.