Melakwa Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Upper Melakwa Lake |
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bordered by Chair Peak (to the right) and Kaleetan Peak (to the left)
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 Upper Melakwa Lake
Location in Washington (state)
Upper Melakwa Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | King County, Washington, United States |
| Coordinates | 47°27′1.16″N 121°28′8.27″W / 47.4503222°N 121.4689639°W |
| Primary inflows | Pratt River |
| Primary outflows | Pratt River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface elevation | 4,505 ft (1,373 m) |
Melakwa Lake is a beautiful lake found in King County, Washington, in the United States. Its name comes from the Chinook language, meaning "mosquito." This lake is located along the Pratt River, very close to where the river begins. It's a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers.
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Getting to Melakwa Lake
Melakwa Lake is a great place to visit if you enjoy hiking. You can find it not far from I-90. The main way to reach the lake is by starting at the Denny Creek trailhead.
The Hike to the Lake
The trail to Melakwa Lake is considered a moderate hike. This means it's not too easy, but also not super difficult. It usually takes a full day to hike from Denny Creek to the lake and back. Hikers get to see lots of nature along the way.
What Makes Melakwa Lake Special?
Melakwa Lake sits in a narrow valley, surrounded by tall mountains. To the east, you'll see Chair Peak. To the west, Kaleetan Peak stands tall. The lake is usually clear enough to visit by late June each year.
Clear Waters and Amazing Views
The lake is famous for its very clear water. It often has a stunning blue-green color that looks amazing in photos. If you're feeling adventurous, you can climb a short distance up a rocky slope. This leads to Melakwa Pass, which offers incredible views. On a clear day, you might see Gem Lake, Glacier Peak, and even parts of the North Cascades mountain range.
