Laughingwater Creek Trail

Laughingwater Creek Trail

• Distance, round trip: 12 miles
• Elevation gain: 2700 feet
• Hiking time, round trip: 6 hours
• Wilderness camp: Three Lakes

Trailhead Location

NOTE: Due to SR123 construction, most of the pullout for the Laughingwater Creek Trailhead is CLOSED in 2025, with limited parking for livestock trailers only.

Drive one mile north of Ohanapecosh on SR123. Park on the west side of the road at Laughingwater Creek. The trailhead is across the highway.

Trail Description

For the first mile Laughingwater Creek Trail has a gentle grade. It then becomes a steady but gradual climb for the next two miles. After these first three miles, the trail ascends steeply for the next 3.5 miles until its junction with the unmaintained East Boundary Trail. Beyond the junction, it descends slightly for a half mile until reaching Three Lakes (this trail is sometimes referred to as the Three Lakes Trail).

Optionally can continue hiking beyond Three Lakes to connect to the Pacific Crest Trail.

Along the Trail

The trail follows Laughingwater Creek as it leads hikers through the forest. Stop to enjoy the loud and soothing sound of the creek from its bank. Atop the ridge hikers will find three small mountain lakes with the historic Three Lakes Patrol Cabin nearby. Mount Rainier can be seen by taking a short half-mile hike beyond the third lake and emerging from the forest into an open area.

Backpacking

The Three Lakes Camp is one of the few in the park where stock is permitted. With or without stock, permits are required for camping. Camp only in the designated sites. Camping adjacent to the lakes is prohibited! Permits and current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, and visitor centers.

Trail Regulations

• Always check current trail conditions before heading out. Current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, and visitor centers. Check hours of operation.
• Fires are prohibited.
• No pets on trails.
• Treat water before drinking.