The flagpole of Historic Winchester Fire Lookout can be seen to the west directly above the Lake, especially when the American Flag is hoisted high. This building is maintained by the Mount Baker Hiking Club and is open to the public on a first-come basis free of charge but is supported by donations. To the northwest, the trail to Low and High Passes bring the Hiker to the very base of Mt. Larrabee and the Pleiades Peaks. Below High Pass the sites of the Gargett Brothers mines can still be found. The gated road to the northeast from the Lakes, leads both to the Silesia Creek trailhead and the still active Lone Jack gold mine on the slope of Goat Mountain.

The existence of a road to the very shore of these remote lakes has long been a contention between groups seeking vehicle access and those wanting to preserve the wilderness setting. Regardless of this issue, the 3 mile section of road between the Yellow Aster Butte trailhead and Twin Lakes is probably the worst public road in Whatcom County. Boulders, washouts, narrow roadbed and hairpins, make the difficulty of this road legendary. It is common for hikers with passenger vehicles to park at the Yellow Aster Butte trailhead and hike the remaining 3 miles rather than damage their vehicles in an attempt to reach the lake.

So if you have an interest in historic lookouts, gold mines, wildlife, flowers, or the beauty of alpine lakes, then pull on your hiking boots, or find a friend with a 4-wheel drive and find out why so many people think the trip to Twin Lakes is worth a little extra bother.

Written By: Bud Hardwick


Comments
It's deffinetly worth the drive! The lakes are crytal clear and cold, and taste better than any bottled water that you could ever buy. We even saw snow on the ground but was nice and warm. I would strongly encourage other people to go.
- Ron on Sun, August 5, 2007

beautiful spot to camp. not croweded like other areas. public bathrooms are an issue. road does get bad after several miles. gets very chilly at night but nice during day. lakes are cold too!
- tara on Wed, June 27, 2007

Great Place to camp and hike with amazing scenery. Many trails including High Pass, Winchester lookout, and more. Walk down gated road to the north about 1/2 mile and look for trail on the right, it overlooks an active gold mine. Trout in the lake but tough to get a biggie, don't count on the lake for dinner!! Road isn't too bad but but definately not for your honda, pick-up truck or suv will do the job. Bring firewood if smokey the bear ok's campfires. Great spot for couples, families, or small groups.
- capt. jack sparrow on Sun, August 20, 2006

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