The strenuous hike into the Soda Peaks Lake is rewarded with a beautiful, mountain cirque lake and a number of lakeside campsites.
History: The Trapper Creek Wilderness area at 5963 acres is one of the smaller wilderness areas. In 1984,it became part of the protected Wilderness system and is managed by the Gifford Pinchot NF. There are large areas of old-growth forest adjacent to the Trapper Creek and Trail #192. In the north, Observation Peak is a popular day hike with its expansive views of the Cascade stratovolcanoes.
The history of Government Mineral Springs is fascinating: from an early 1910-1930's hotel and resort to a CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp) camp in the 1930-1940's, today camping, horseback riding, and hiking in nearby Trapper Creek Wilderness area are the popular attractions.
Directions: From Carson, Washington go north on Wind River Highway/Forest Road 30 for about 15 miles to the intersection with Forest Road 3065 just past the Fish Hatchery. Turn left on Road 3065 and continue for about one quarter mile. Turn right/north on FS5401 to the trailhead parking area. There is an pit vault restroom that was open. Don't forget your NW Forest Service pass.
From the TH parking area, hike west on Trail #192. At about 1.75 mi cross a small stream (rock hop), then turn left/south at the Soda Peak sign. Cross over on the Trapper Creek bridge and begin the "strenuous" climb on the #133 trail. Over the next 2.7 miles you will gain 2615 ft of elevation, about 975 ft per mile (see the trail profile). This is a south facing slope so bring plenty of extra water. There is no water until you get to Soda Peaks Lake.
There are a number of logs across the trail and most can be stepped or crawled over. Also, the trail in 4 or 5 areas has sloughed downhill and can have some tricky footing. Go slow! At about 3000 ft. I encountered really hungry MOSQUITOES so bring some bug stuff.
There is some large old-growth Douglas fir at about 3400 ft. But there is also at least 5 large (30"-40") fallen logs across the trail which makes it quite challenging to crawl through. A scouting assessment has been sent to WTA for remediation. See my Google Photos album link for more pictures.
Soda Peaks Lake is a beautiful destination with a half-dozen lakeside campsites. The lake is also popular with trout fisherman.
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