The trail to Echo Lake offers a relatively easy day hike from the trailhead or Summit Lake campgrounds. It is also one stop on the longer popular Cluster Lakes loop. From the Ranger Station trailhead, the trail connects to the Summit Lake trail after 0.4 miles. The trail to Echo lake branches off after 0.5 miles on the far east side of the lake. The first part of the trail climbs away from the lake through fir forest to a manzanita carpeted woodland. Here hikers can enjoy a spectacular view of Lassen Peak to the southwest. The trail then continues climbing to a ridge top to the intersection of the beginning and end of the Cluster Lakes Loop trail. Follow the trail to right and continue 0.8 miles to Echo Lake. The shaded shores and green blue water of Echo lake offer hikers a quiet destination for picnicking, swimming or relaxing.

The Summit Lake Trailhead is located at the Summit Lake Ranger Station, 17 miles north of the southwest entrance or 12 miles southeast of the northwest entrance. You may also pick up the Summit Lake trail from the South and North Summit Lake campgrounds. Follow the Summit Lake trail to the east side of the lake to connect to the Cluster Lakes loop trail.