After too many rainy winter days spent inside we needed a trip to the mountains. After some research we found a hike that supposedly would be snow free long before many other destinations in the Cascades. So we decided to give it a try.
Greider Lake is a 7.1 mile roundtrip hike that ends at two lakes and passes a small pond at the start. It climbs 1370 ft and is a fairly easy hike. The lake is part of Sultan Basin which is Everett's public water supply so you will need to sign in and acknowledge the rules and regulations for recreation use.
Sure enough, the trail was snow free and relatively dry. The climb up is a little monotonous with lots of switch backs, but once you reach the high point it opens up a little and offers a nice change of scenery. When we got to the lake the temperature dropped significantly so we didn't spend too much time hanging out. The trail was a little overgrown and we got pretty wet trudging through the overhanging vegetation. We passed one group headed down after what they said was a cold and wet backpacking trip. Other than that the trail was pretty quiet. We did see a sign at the trail head warning of recent bear activity, but we saw no signs.
Big Greider Lake
To reach the trail head take Highway 2 East toward Sultan. At the light east of town (past mile marker 23) turn left (north) onto Sultan Basin Road. Follow it for 13.25 miles (the pavement ends at 10.25) to the information kiosk where you sign in. Then continue 500 feet farther to a Y intersection, bearing right onto Forest Road 61. From there the trailhead is another 7.1 miles. We had a little difficulty finding it at first because there are numerous junctions during the last 7 miles. A forest service map is helpful to make sure you're remaining on the correct road.
