Steamboat Lake

A more remote lake in Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Lake Name: Steamboat Lake

Lake Coordinates: 46.1302, -121.7156

Lake Elevation: 4022'

Access: Drive up

Permits/Fees: None

Note: FS 8854 & FS 8854-040 can require high clearance vehicles.

Location: Near FS 8854 in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington, U.S.A.

Administration: Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Ranger District: Mount Adams Ranger District

Date Accessed: August 20, 2023

Accessing Steamboat Lake was a fun adventure on bumpy and narrow back roads. This lake was very pretty. From the small parking lot there was a log with the top sawed off I was able to walk out on to the edge of the lake. The wildfire smoke was pretty hazy, but we were still able to see the other end of the lake. There was only one other person we saw at the lake.

View from edge of lake

Ever since I was a kid, I always thought lakes with lily pads were so cool. This lake passes that kid test. There were lily pads and some marshy areas. This would be a fun lake to kayak or canoe. The Forest Service marks this area as light usage, so more than likely there won't be many people.

Looking back at parking area from edge of lake

Resources

• Forest Service (trail)

There is a trail from Steamboat Lake that connects with the PCT. The forest service website only has a page for the trail, not the lake. It was the only source online I was able to find that mentions the lake.

How to get there (from Trout Lake, WA)

Take Hwy 141 out of Trout Lake, WA for 0.8 miles. Turn right on FS 88 and proceed for 12.5 miles. Take a left on FS 8851 and continue for 3.3 miles. Turn right on FS 8854 and proceed for 2.8 miles. Turn right on Fs 8854-040 and continue for 0.1 miles to the end of the road to a small parking area.

Note: FS 8854 & FS 8854-040 requires a high clearance vehicle and depending on road conditions could require 4x4.

Coordinates

• Turn off for FS 8854-040: 46.13249, -121.71852

• Lake edge: 46.13204, -121.71635

• Lake; 46.1302, -121.7156

Map

My Wild Adventure is not responsible for your safety, any possible injury, or anything that happens if you choose to follow anything on this website. Maps are not intended to be used for navigational purposes, but to give an overview of the route taken. By going outdoors you are solely responsible to know your strengths and limitations, be aware of current conditions and proceed with the appropriate caution. My Wild Adventure is not responsible for your choices and the outcome. Reference my disclaimer for more information on being responsible outdoors.