Serene

Nestled under the imposing walls of Mt. Index at an elevation of 2525 feet sits Lake Serene. Until recently Lake Serene was stocked primarily by WDFW aircraft. It is now stocked by hand which could improve angling opportunities for hikers looking for a unique fishing opportunity in a beautiful alpine setting in a somewhat low elevation lake.

The hike begins on an old road system to the base of Bridal Veil Falls a worthy destination in it's own right. From the base of the falls a renovated trail system climbs 1500 feet through old timber to reach the lake.

The lake basin faces north and can hold snow until July even on low snow years most likely from avalanche activity throughout the winter from the towering Mt Index. Lake Serene is most likely best fished from a raft although this is not a necessity. Anglers can get their gear in the water from the outlet side of the lake rather easily and more adventurous hikers can venture around the shoreline boulders that have calved off of the Norwegian Buttress and the other sheer faces of Mt. Index.

Day use only - No overnight camping permitted.

Getting here:

From Everett, follow US 2 seven miles east of Gold Bar. Just before it crosses the Skykomish River - milepost 35 -turn right onto Mount Index Road. Proceed on this dirt road 0.4 mile, turning right on the spur road signed "Lake Serene Trail 1068."

The trailhead and large parking area are 500 feet farther (elev. 600 ft.). Restroom available.

Day use only - Dogs Must be leased.

Species you might catch

Rainbow trout

Lake information

County: Snohomish
Acreage: 49.90 ac.
Elevation: 2525 ft.
TRS: T27R10E SEC31
Center: 47.781821, -121.570379
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Fishing resources

Fish stocking info

Release Location: SERENE LK (SNOH)
Stock Date	Species	Number Released	Number of Fish Per Pound	Facility
Apr 18, 2024	Rainbow	4,048	2.2	WHITEHORSE POND
Jul 10, 2023	Rainbow	1,000	520	TOKUL CR HATCHERY
Apr 13, 2023	Rainbow	4,000	2.5	ARLINGTON HATCHERY
Apr 15, 2022	Rainbow	4,092	2.2	ARLINGTON HATCHERY
Apr 15, 2022	Rainbow	50	0.5	ARLINGTON HATCHERY
Jul 5, 2021	Rainbow	1,000	545	TOKUL CR HATCHERY
Apr 15, 2021	Rainbow	4,246	2.2	ARLINGTON HATCHERY
Jul 11, 2019	Rainbow	1,000	548	TOKUL CR HATCHERY
Jul 18, 2017	Rainbow	100	712	TOKUL CR HATCHERY
May 12, 2017	Rainbow	900	1,367	ARLINGTON HATCHERY

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.

Photos

Photo by WDFW