Bear Lake (King County)

This interesting round-shaped  lake can be reached via a 10 to 11 mile round trip hike from the Hwy 2 side or a bit longer from the Interstate 90 direction. Although the shoreline is wooded, some shore fishing opportunities can be found. Anglers will find sometimes challenging fishing for small to medium size naturally reproducing Rainbow Trout. The area is popular with long distance day-hikers and backpackers.

Getting here:

From Hwy 2 take the signed Money Creek Campground turn before MP 46 eastbound. Turn right onto the Miller River Road until it ends at the Dorothy Lake trailhead. Hike 1.8 miles up to Dorothy's outlet gaining approx 800', then continue 2 miles along the east shore to the wide usually low/slow-flowing inlet stream and cross on rocks. Continue, ascending 750' up the hillside then descend 200' finally arriving at Bear Lake at approx 5.25 miles from the trailhead. An alternate longer route departs from the Taylor River trailhead, Middle Fork Snoqualmie area off I90.

Species you might catch

Lake information

County: King
Acreage: 45.80 ac.
Elevation: 3614 ft.
TRS: T24R11E SEC15
Center: 47.573663, -121.394876
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Fishing prospects calendar

Rainbow trout

Fishing success for Rainbow Trout is generally best in the spring when thousands of fish are stocked statewide, but they can be caught year-round in most waters with a little patience and persistence. Success remains high into June and gradually declines as water temperatures increase and fish move offshore to stay cool. Fish that escaped the spring harvest return to the nearshore areas in the fall as waters cool off. Some waters may also be stocked again in the fall further boosting catch rates.
Chart showing fishing prospects throughout the calendar year

Photos

Image
Bear Lake
Photo by WDFW