Length: 6.4 miles round trip Elevation Change: 500' climb then 800' drop = 1300' gain Season: Late Spring thru Late Fall Difficulty: Moderate Permit: NW Forest Pass Required Features: This is one of many hikes in the Wahtum Lake area. The trail begins
right behind the outhouse at the parking area for Wahtum Lake. You climb a steady
moderate climb to the top of a ridge that provides you will excellent views of the
surrounding peaks and valleys. You will cross an old unused road that used to service
Wahtum Lake and fire lookouts on the nearby hilltops.
At about two miles you will be on the edge of a ridge that runs north to Tom Like Mountain.
Here you begin the serious descent into the valley where Mud Lake is located. In about another
mile you will see on your right a sign marking the path to Mud Lake. Depending on the season,
the lake varies in depth and insect friendliness. Also, depending on the season, you will enjoy
a variety of floral displays. Now of course, you get to climb the 800' back out of this valley.
But, its worth it!
