One of the places close to Black Diamond Cabin is the picturesque Elbow Lake. The lake is a 32-minute drive from the majestic Sasquatch Mountain. You can imagine the scenery greeting you when you drive through the roads. But what is it can you do in and around Elbow Lake?
Things Elbow Lake is Known For
1. Fishing
Fishing is one of the popular activities you can do in Elbow Lake. It’s one of the common destinations that people go to for fishing. Common fish caught here are Cutthroat Trout as well as Rainbow Trout. You’ll find more success getting Cutthroat Trout during fishing season.
Note that the perimeter of the lake is 2.9 km, so you’ll need to know the best position possible for fishing. Also, there are local fishing rules and regulations to consider.
Only catch-and-release fishing is permitted within a season. Live baits aren’t allowed, and barbless hooks must be used.
2. Paddleboarding and Kayaking
There’s nothing like paddleboarding and kayaking in Elbow Lake. The pristine, clear waters reflecting the lush greenery of the trees are just so soothing. You can get in a better position, too, should you decide to fish while you’re at it.
The nice lake mountain views and the peaceful, calm scenery will be just the thing you need to quiet the noise in your brain. Just imagine cruising along a calm water surface as you paddle along. Some even have their dogs with them. That’s how calm the waters are.
3. Picturesque Scenery
Elbow Lake is a photographer’s haven. There are so many beautiful sceneries around the lake that will get your photographer’s creative juices going. The trees are so vibrantly green, and the water is so still you can see breathtaking reflections.
4. Take a dip
Elbow Lake is great for swimming in the summer. There’s a swimming area outlined with floating buoys, so you know where it’s safe to swim. If you’re an Eco-Adventure Camp participant, swimming must be done under lifeguard supervision. Outside the Camp, though, swimming is unsupervised.
As with recreational swimming, there are risks and hazards involved. Be aware of the surroundings, and practice safety at all costs. Be aware of the hazards involved so that everyone is prepared for the unexpected.
Things to Note About Elbow Lake
Elbow Lake fills up pretty fast on the weekends. There is limited parking there, so the best time to visit is during the week. If you are planning to visit during the weekends, make sure to show up early, so you can get a spot. There is parking on the south side of the lake and a few spots along the Chehalis FSR on the west side.
Also, note that there are no bathroom facilities or garbage disposal at the lake, so plan accordingly and pack out what you pack in.
As far as beaches, there aren’t many at Elbow Lake, so if you are looking for sandy spots with easy accessibility, then this lake may not be the best place. On the south side of the lake, there are some flat spots amongst the trees, but they fill up fast, and the downside is they are in the shade during most of the days. There are some additional spots along the west of the lake; however, you need to climb down rocks with ropes. This can be slippery both in the dry summery times (due to the fine dirt that you can easily slip on), and of course, it will also be slippery when wet.
All in all, it’s a great lake if you wish to get out on your paddle board or kayak. The lake is very calm and great for both of the activities. It’s also excellent for swimming and floating, so pack some floaties. If you are into fishing, there are rainbow trout and cutthroat trout, however make sure to check fishing restrictions in the area and follow all regulation.
How To Get To Elbow Lake from Sasquatch Mountain
The easiest way to get to Elbow Lake during your stay in Black Diamon Cabin is from Sasquatch Mountain. The mountain is only a 3-minute drive from the cabin, so you won’t be adding too much travel time. To get there, you have to:
- Drive southwest on Snowmist Drive to Hemlock Valley Road: Cover about 220 meters, then you’ll be at Hemlock Valley Road.
- Take a right turn onto Hemlock Valley Road: (We highly recommend getting your GoPro out to get stunning scenic views). Keep going for 7.5 kilometers.
- Take another right turn at Morris Valley Road: there’s a turn at the end of the Hemlock Valley Road; take a right turn. Keep your GoPro or camera going, as the view here is spectacular. Keep on this road for 7.5 kilometers.
- There’s another right turn at Chehalis Forest Service Road: you’ll just drive about 3.4 kilometers here. At this point, you’ll see signs guiding you to Elbow Lake.
- You’ve arrived at your destination! There’s a parking area here for you to leave your vehicle. From this point, it’s all about getting memories and adventures!
Elbow Lake is a great place to be in. Leave behind the worries and stress of the city, and just bask in the wonders of nature. From serene mountain tops and calm waters to fresh air, Elbow Lake is a place you’ll never forget.
