We are in the process of updating all of our trail guides. In the meantime, please call the Wilderness Information Center at 360-854-7245 for trail information.  Thanks for your patience.

Lake Juanita lies in a larch-dotted basin between Purple and War Creek Passes. At over 6,600' elevation (2010 m), it is not a casual hike by any approach route, but offers days of exploring in several directions for backpackers. See the detailed trail description for more information on this area.

Special Concerns:

• The Lake Juanita area is likely to have snow covering the trails into early July, making route-finding difficult.
• The meadows around the lake are fragile. Please take care to avoid trampling the vegetation by hiking and resting only on durable surfaces such as the trail, snow or rocks.
• Fires are not allowed in this area.
• Grazing is not allowed within 1/4 mile of the Juanita Lake basin.

Backcountry Camping: A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays. Permits are limited. There are both hiker and stock camps near the lake. The party size limit is 12 persons, or a total of 12 pairs of eyes, including stock and people. Campfires are not allowed.

Access via Twisp River Road: From the town of Twisp, follow the Twisp River Road to the War Creek trailhead. Follow the War Creek Trail 9.3 miles (15 km) to Juanita Lake. A Northwest Forest Pass or federal recreation access pass is required to park, and is available at any ranger station.

Access via Stehekin: From Stehekin Landing, find the trailhead for the Purple Creek Trail near the Golden West Visitor Center and follow this trail 8.5 miles (13.7 km) to Juanita Lake. 

For more information on current trail and road conditions, permits, regulations and trip planning please see our Wilderness Trip Planner.

Ninety-three percent of North Cascades National Park Service Complex is designated as the Stephen Mather Wilderness, set aside by law for "the American people of present and future generations" for our protection and enjoyment. Please follow all Leave No Trace hiking and camping practices to reduce your impact on this special place and leave it unimpaired for future generations.