Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
400.00 ft (121.92 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
6.00 mi (9.66 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

A short and gentle day hike from Salmon la Sac, Cooper Lake is a great place to visit for a day of swimming or fishing. It is not necessary to make the trip on foot since it is also accessible by car, but if you do choose to hike you'll have a pleasant, ambling trek along the Cooper River.

From the Salmon la Sac Trailhead, start hiking along the river as the trail splits off from those heading to Polallie Ridge and Waptus Lake. With only 400 feet of elevation gain, the trail stays gentle throughout as it rolls along the river valley through old-growth trees, berries, and occasional patches of wildflowers. The river is full of plump trout, so keep an eye out for good fishing holes as you walk by.

After 3 miles the trail intersects Cooper Lake Road and continues on the other side just down the way. As the lake comes into view through the trees, the primitive campsites of Owhi Campground start appearing on either side of the trail. Access the beach from the campground for a good picnic spot, or continue on toward the boat ramp. Since no motorized boats are allowed on Cooper Lake, it is an ideal spot for swimming, kayaking and canoeing.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

NW Forest Pass

Pros

Gentle hike. Swimming.

Cons

None.

Trailhead Elevation

2,500.00 ft (762.00 m)

Features

Fishing

Suitable for

Horseback

Location

Nearby Adventures

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington
Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington
Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington
Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington

Comments

You can take short trail through camping site, enjoy the cold water, kayak..
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