King County’s Emerald Lake in the Necklace Valley’s string of lakes, is located about 10 miles S.E. from the town of Skykomish. It covers from three to eight surface acres, depending on the time of year and weather conditions. It reaches depths of about 8 feet and lies at an elevation of 4725 feet. Fish species are reported to include Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout. It can be reached by a trail that starts at the East Fork Foss – Necklace Valley trail head-head parking lot. To get there follow a well-traveled and clearly marked up into the Necklace Valley.
At about 6 miles you will pass by the first lake – Jade Lake. Continue up on the main trail that runs north/south for another ¾ mile until you meet an unmarked trail intersection heading east/west. If you would like to see the old Necklace Valley Cabin drop your pack here and venture another 200 feet along the main path to explore. The old cabin has a dirt floor, no door or windows but it could provide some shelter in a pinch.
At the trail intersection, head east for another 200 feet or so you will see aptly named Emerald Lake.
Overview and photos by Kirsten Raye (Johansen) Lee. Kirsten is an avid Mountain hiker and outdoor photographer.