Alger Alps via Squires Lake

 

Nestled just a stone’s throw from the bustling I-5 corridor, the Alger Alp via Squires Lake trail offers a surprisingly serene escape into the Chuckanut Mountain system. Starting at the Squires Lake trailhead off Old Highway 99, hikers are greeted with a well-maintained path that weaves through a lush forest of cedars, firs, and maples, with the tranquil Squires Lake as an early reward. The trail, part of the Pacific Northwest Trail, forks toward the South Ridge, guiding you along a narrow spine with Friday Creek below, before merging onto old logging roads (FR 1300 and FR 1000) that lead to the summit of Alger Alp. At the top, expansive views of Skagit Valley, Samish Bay, and even distant Koma Kulshan (Mount Baker) on clear days make the 4-mile round trip, with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain, well worth the effort. The trail’s mix of singletrack and gravel roads, dotted with wildflowers like foxglove and salmonberry, offers a moderate challenge perfect for a half-day adventure.

For those planning a trek, note that the Squires Lake trailhead, while equipped with parking for about 15 vehicles, lacks a restroom, so come prepared. The lot is small, and the absence of facilities underscores the area’s rustic charm—bring water, snacks, and perhaps trekking poles for the steeper sections. The trail’s accessibility, just 2 miles north of Alger, makes it a gem for locals and travelers alike, but its connection to broader networks like the PNT invites exploration beyond the Alp, perhaps to Beaver Pond or a point-to-point hike with a car shuttle to Alger Cain Lake Road. Whether you’re chasing solitude or a quick leg-burner with a payoff, this hike delivers a slice of the Pacific Northwest’s raw beauty, unpolished and unpretentious.

To reach the Squires Lake trailhead from the south, take I-5 north to Exit 242 (South Lake Samish). Turn right onto Nulle Road, which quickly becomes Old Highway 99 North. Drive about 0.7 miles, and the trailhead parking lot will be on your left. It’s a small gravel lot with space for about 15 vehicles.