Fourth of July Lake & Washington Lake
Fourth of July and Washington Lakes are the gold standard for easy day hikes in the Boulder-White Clouds.
Washington Lake, Brad Smith
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Location: Boulder-White Clouds
- Status: Proposed Wilderness
- Distance: 5 miles or 7 miles including trip to ridge top
- Elevation: 1,080 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
- Maps: USGS
Boulder Chain Lakes; Washington Peak; or Google
Maps
- More information: Day Hiking
Near Sun Valley
This hike offers delightful scenery and excellent wildflower opportunities in late July. At 1.5 miles from the trailhead, you come to a fork. You either continue straight to Fourth of July and Washington Lakes or turn left to climb the ridge to the viewpoint. Going straight, it won't take you long to reach campsites along the shore of Fourth of July Lake. It's another mile of easy walking to Washington Lake.
If you turn left at the fork, hike a mile up a moderately steep slope to the ridge top. At 9,800 ft, you see spectacular views of the White Cloud Peaks (to the east) and Sawtooth Range (to the west). Born Lakes lies below, nestled between mountain walls.
Directions:
Drive north from Ketchum on Highway 75 for 47.5 miles to Fourth of July Creek Road. Turn right and drive 10 miles to the end of the road. There, enjoy the conveniences of a parking lot and toilet facilities.
