Walker Lake Out and Back

This extended out-and-back backpacking trip travels deep into the White Clouds, offering a diverse range of high alpine scenery, remote wilderness, and glacially carved lakes. Starting from the Fourth of July Trailhead, the route meanders past Washington Lake and along the Livingston Mill Castle Creek Trail before reaching the serene shores of Walker Lake. This is a great choice for experienced backpackers looking for solitude and dramatic mountain landscapes.

Start at the Fourth of July Trailhead and follow the well-maintained trail past Fourth of July and Washington Lakes—two scenic alpine gems surrounded by rugged peaks. Continue along the Livingston Mill Castle Creek Trail, climbing over high ridgelines and descending through wildflower-filled meadows and lodgepole pine forest.

The trail offers varied terrain and views of the White Clouds’ dramatic limestone formations. As you progress deeper into the range, expect creek crossings, open valleys, and occasional sections of rocky tread. Eventually, you'll reach Walker Lake—a peaceful alpine lake nestled at the base of jagged granite peaks. It’s an ideal turnaround point and makes for a beautiful overnight basecamp before retracing your steps.

This route offers a changing ecosystem of lodgepole pine, subalpine fir, and high alpine meadows. Look for mountain goats on ridges, pika among the talus, and abundant wildflowers in summer. Black bears are present—store food properly.

Designated and dispersed camping options are available along the trail, including near Washington Lake and Walker Lake. Water sources are plentiful but always filter or treat before drinking.

Considerations

• This is a remote, high-country route with significant elevation gain and loss. Be prepared for long, rugged days.

• Snow can linger into early summer; check with local ranger stations for trail conditions.

• Mosquitoes can be heavy in early summer—bring bug protection.

• Wilderness permits are typically self-issued at the trailhead.

• Practice Leave No Trace and be mindful of fragile alpine ecosystems.

Getting There
The Fourth of July Trailhead is accessed via Fourth of July Creek Road (FR 209), about 10 miles off ID-75 near Stanley, ID. The road is rough but passable to most vehicles in dry conditions.