Sunday Hike - Hope and Mig Lake

Sunday, May 31st,

Hope and Mig Lakes

5.0 miles | 1,550 ft gain | PCT + Alpine Meadows

https://maps.app.goo.gl/YmXaY7pmL2xGqEQC8

There’s something unmistakably special about the moment when spring finally pushes its way into the high country. The colors return slowly, then suddenly all at once: patches of snow still clinging to shadows, meadows waking up beneath the sun, and that unmistakable scent of thawed earth and melted winter. The journey to Hope and Mig Lakes is our invitation into that threshold season — where the world is unfurling, and we are simply there to witness.

This route carries us along a short stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail, moving through open meadows and cool forest air before lifting us into the quiet bowl where these two alpine lakes rest. There may still be snow or ice floating along the edges — a reminder that mountains respect their own pace. The lakes feel tucked away, still exhaling winter, but hinting at the season that is about to bloom.

Expect a steady climb, soft trail underfoot, the chorus of meltwater trickling through the meadows, and maybe a curious marmot watching us from a rock. Bring layers — we might sit at the lakes a while just to take it all in. Trekking poles are recommended if late-season snow is present.

Afterward, we’ll head to The Woodshed Espresso and Ice Cream in Gold Bar for warm drinks, good chatter, and perhaps a celebratory scoop if the weather smiles on us. Consider this your invitation to savor the first alpine whisper of summer.

Hope and Mig Lakes — Washington Trails Association

We'll meet in the north parking lot at the Green Lake Park and Ride next to the bus stop on 65th and directly under the I-5 freeway at 7 am. Since we are heading northeast out on Highway 2, we can also stop off at the Monroe McDonald's at 7:45 am to either pick up additional riders or further coordinate rideshares. Rideshare for the day is $22 per person from the Green Lake Park and Ride and $13 per person from the Monroe McDonald's and is paid to the driver of the vehicle.

Green Lake Park and Ride: 7 am, $22

Monroe McDonald's: 7:45 am, $13

Our estimated time of arrival at the trailhead is: 8:45 am

Yes, there are two separate fees regarding this event. The event fee is $18, and then a rideshare if you are riding as a passenger with a driver.

Sorry, no doggies are allowed at any Tenderfoot Adventures events as per our insurance policy. We all love our fur babies, and I am sure that yours is amazing as well, but alas, there are no doggies allowed at any of our events.

If you have been with us for three or more events and would like to receive our weekly newsletter, which provides weekly insights into our events, exclusive invites to events that are not posted on Meetup or our website, and access to offers from our brand collaborations, please contact me at tenderfootadventure@gmail.com

You can also check out our website at www.tenderfootadventures.net for a full overview of who we are and what we do.

You can also find us on

Instagram: @tenderfootadventure

Facebook: Tenderfoot Adventures

Pinterest: Tenderfoot Adventures