Melakwa Lake is located 5.0 miles up the Denny Creek drainage west of Alpental Valley and Snoqualmie Pass. This moderate trail follows the creek past the The Slide and Keekwulee Falls to Hemlock Pass (4,510’), where it drops 135’ in .5 miles to Melakwa Lake. Continue on social tracks along the inlet to Upper Melakwa Lake, and above on a challenging scramble to Melakwa Pass.

Upper Melakwa Lake with Melakwa Pass beyond

Boardwalks lead through swampy bottoms of skunk cabbage & devil's club

A scree field approaching Hemlock Pass

Keekwulee Falls

Bryant & Chair Peak dominate the ridge above Melakwa Lakes

The Tooth is visible from many points along the Denny Creek Trail

View of the final climb to Hemlock Pass

HIkers enjoy a swim in Melakwa Lake