Overview
Lake Angeles sits in a glacial cirque at 4,196 feet, backed by a 1,000-foot cliff and ringed by old-growth forest. Getting there requires a 2,100-foot climb over 3.5 miles from the trailhead near Heart o' the Hills Campground, just 5 miles south of Port Angeles. The combination of proximity to town and genuine alpine character makes this one of the more rewarding trails in the northern Olympic Peninsula.
The trail passes through Douglas fir old-growth on its way up, transitioning to subalpine terrain in the upper section. The lake at the top is cold, quiet, and dramatic in its setting: steep cliffs on the south end, forest on the north, and the sky framed overhead. On windless summer days the cliffs reflect perfectly in the water.
This trail is within Olympic National Park; Olympic National Forest begins at the park boundary a short drive north. The park fee structure applies here.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.0: Forest Climb
The trail begins near the Heart o' the Hills Campground and climbs steadily south through old-growth Douglas fir. The first two miles gain approximately 1,200 feet through a series of switchbacks on a well-maintained trail. The canopy is dense and the understory lush with fern and oxalis.
Several viewpoints look north toward the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Port Angeles. The city is visible below, which creates an unusual sensation of urban proximity in wild terrain.
Miles 2.0 to 3.5: Upper Forest and Lake
The forest transitions to silver fir and mountain hemlock as the trail approaches 4,000 feet. The grade eases slightly in the final mile before the lake. The trail emerges at the lake's north shore with the cirque cliffs visible across the water.
The designated campsite is at the lake. Day hikers typically explore the shore and rest at the north end before returning.
When to Visit
June through October. The lower forest is accessible earlier, but snow covers the upper trail into late May in most years. September and early October offer excellent conditions with stable weather and few crowds.
What to Bring
- Many hikers carry 1.5 to 2 liters of water. Water is available at the lake but requires treatment. Individual needs vary.
- Layers for the lake level, which can be 15 degrees cooler than Port Angeles below.
- Solid hiking shoes with good traction for the root-covered lower trail.
- Sun protection for the lake's open cirque environment.
Practical Details
Olympic National Park entrance fee ($35/vehicle for 7 days as of 2026) applies. Flush restrooms at Heart o' the Hills Campground near the trailhead. Dogs are not permitted.
For overnight trips, a backcountry permit from Olympic National Park is required (fee as of 2026). For general permit information, see the national forest camping permit guide and the Olympic National Park website for park-specific procedures.
Veterans may qualify for a free America the Beautiful pass; see veteran benefits for national forests. Check current conditions for snow coverage and road status before heading out.
Getting There
From downtown Port Angeles, drive south on Race Street, which becomes Hurricane Ridge Road. The Heart o' the Hills entrance station is approximately 4.5 miles from town. The Lake Angeles Trailhead is at the campground, 0.5 miles past the entrance station. Total drive time from Port Angeles is about 10 minutes. Pay the park fee at the entrance station.