Hidden Lake Lookout — Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025

The road up is as described in the other reviews. I arrived Saturday morning at 7:30am on the Labor Day holiday weekend. The lot had about 4 spots left when I arrived. The lot when I left at about 1:00 pm had a few open spots and there were about 6-8 cars parked on the side of the road. It was hazy today so I didn't get the best views of the mountains but Baker did materialize a little bit.
The trail: Once out of the forest the trail becomes a bit overgrown for about 3/4 of a mile. Nothing too difficult to navigate. The only time it was an issue was when encountering other hikers and trying to step aside. The trail opens up after that with gorgeous views of the mountains. It's mostly exposed from this point so be prepared if the sun is out. The trail continues on the dirt path with the usual roots and rocks but after about 1.5-2 miles the trail becomes rocky. Easy to follow.
Once closer to Hidden Lake there are several trails, mostly social trails. Cairns did mark the way and an arrow was created out of rocks pointing the way in a couple of places.
I stopped above the lake and ate lunch on a boulder and did not go up to the lookout because the haze was obscuring the views somewhat. Others coming down did say it wasn't that bad to get up there. They mentioned light scrambling. I noticed a few bugs buzzing by me but they weren't too much of an issue. Although I discovered 4 bites on my shoulder when I got home. I even had my shoulders covered but they decided to snack through my shirt.