About this place

Provides access to: Coal Lake Trail 632 and 1 mile beyond to Independence Lake/North Lake Trail 712. Coal Lake Trail 632; This vehicle accessible, lake is quite popular since it is a short walk from the road. A few campsites can be found near this scenic lake that is a popular fishing spot. Independence/North Lake trail 712; Pass through a second growth area harvested in 1961 and enter old-growth timber as the trail drops then rises to the lake. The lake is surrounded by forest and is heavily fished. You will find camping at the north and south ends of the lake. The north end offers a backcountry toilet. Access to the North Lake Trail #712.1 is at the northeast end of Independence Lake where the trail begins to switchback up the hillside A fee is charged. From the Verlot Public Service Center (11 miles east of Granite Falls, WA), travel east on the Mt. Loop Highway for 15.0 miles. Turn left (north) on the Coal Lake Road (Forest Service road 4060). Continue for 4.4 miles to the trailhead.