Basin Lake Loop Ride

The Basin Lake Loop from Crystal Mountain is a scenic route that is very popular with horseback riders and hikers. The Sand Flats Horse Camp is located near the trailhead and offers excellent horse camping and many more trail options for horse riders.

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What to Expect

• Not only does Crystal Mountain offer world class skiing during the winter months. Summer brings outstanding horseback riding opportunities.
• This is a strenuous 14 mile round trip that includes tremendous views of Mount Rainier as you climb over 2,000 feet along, across, and over mountain ridges on the way to Basin Lake.
• From the parking area you’ll head your horse north and uphill along an abandoned logging road for a short while until you pick up the main trail to Bullion Basin and the Pacific Crest Trail.
• 2 miles into the trek you'll find Bullion Basin – Several hitching posts and a campfire ring make this an inviting spot for a break before you head higher. Bullion basin was the site of several gold mining operations in the early 1900’s. If you keep your eyes open you’ll see the remains of these long forgotten ruins.
• At 2.5 miles you'll find an overlook – At 6,150 feet you’ll be able to look down on most of the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort and your vehicle parked far below.
• at 4.75 miles in you'll find Scout Pass – Here, with Norse Peak looming over you, you’ll have your first look at Basin Lake far below. Continue along the east side of Norse Peak and begin your descent.
• 7.30 miles arrive at Basin Lake – In addition to gazing at the lake’s cerulean waters let your eyes wander upwards to the rocky crags overlooking the lake. Often time you’ll be able to spy on mountain goats as they leap from boulder to boulder.

Rules and Regulations

• Land Manager = Mount Baker - Snoqualmie National Forest
• The national forest requires livestock use certified weed-seed-free feed.
• Northwest Forest Pass is required

Driving Directions

This route begins at the Government Meadows horse camp area. To get to the horse camp: Follow Highway 410 east of Enumclaw and about 2 miles past the town of Greenwater. Turn Left on Forest Road 70 and stay on it, for 17 miles, to the end. The first 10 miles or so of the road are paved.

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Highway 410 Mather Memorial Parkway) to the Crystal Mountain exit immediately north of Mount Rainier National Park. The Crystal Mountain exit is 33 miles south east of Enumclaw, WA. Follow Crystal Mountain Blvd. up the mountain to the second large parking area on the left. There is an RV parking lot immediately across from the area that you want to park in. For those interested in horse camp the Sand Flats horse camp is located just prior to the parking area described above.

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