Ira Spring Trail (Mason Lake/Bandera) Trail #1038
| Trail Uses |  |
Length | 4.0 miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season of Use | Summer / Fall | Beginning Elevation | 2200 feet |
| Visitor Use | Medium | Ending Elevation | 4200 feet (Mason Lake) 4700 feet (High Point to Mason Lake) |
| Map(s) | Green Trails: Bandera #206 | Level of Difficulty | More Difficult |
Trailhead Access:
Follow I-90 to exit #45. Go north and turn left on Road #9030. Continue on Road #9030 for three-quarters of a mile. At the “Y” stay left (straight) onto Road #9031 (Mason Lake Road). FS Road #9030 turns right and goes to Talapus Lake Trailhead. Continue for 3.2 miles to the trailhead at the end of road.
Description, Attractions, and Considerations:
The trail starts on an abandoned road grade, crossing Mason Creek at milepost 0.6 and continuing east for another mile before leaving the road grade to switchback up through open south facing slopes to the junction with Bandera Mountain Trail at 2 .8 miles. At the junction take a right for a steep scramble up Bandera Mountain or continue 0.2 miles (left) to the ridgeline which marks the boundary of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Continue 0.4 miles, losing 300 feet in elevation to the outlet of Mason Creek (milepost 3.4) and follow the west shoreline before gradually climbing to the junction with Mount Defiance Trail #1009 at milepost 4. From the junction, head west to Mount Defiance and Thompson Lake or east to Rainbow and Island Lakes.
Fantastic wildflowers late spring through summer. On a clear day there are several vantage points with views of Mt. Rainier. Bandera Mountain summit is at 5,240 feet elevation.
Notes:
- A Northwest Forest Pass is required for each vehicle parked at the trailhead.
- Use designated campsites. NO CAMPFIRES
- The trail is closed to motorized vehicles, bicycles and stock.
- Dogs must be on a leash.