Distance: 0.9 miles (1.4km) to lake; 3.6 miles (5.8km) around lake
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 500 ft. (150m)
The hike to Lower Dewey is one of the most popular hikes in town. Although the initial incline is very steep and can be exhausting, don't let it discourage you from hiking the loop! Pace yourself and once you make it up to the reservoir it flattens out and the loop trail around the lake is mostly flat ground and stunningly beautiful. If you want a more secluded hike and are in shape, traveling on to Icy Lake, Sturgill's Landing, or Upper Dewey Lake is possible off the Lower Dewey trail. Each of those trails have less foot traffic. Lower Dewey is a pleasant way to spend the morning or afternoon and a great option for a family hike.
Directions (As listed on nps.gov website) : Go east on 2nd Ave. past the railroad depot. Where the railroad tracks cross the road turn left and follow the tracks 120 meters north to the trailhead (beware of trains when crossing the tracks!) A short distance up the hill the trail branches off to the right (continuing straight up the hill is a steep power company maintenance road). Descend the wooden staircase, duck under the water pipe, and continue up the hill. The trail jogs left and crosses a short footbridge. Here the trail continues on a steep main uphill for about 100 meters. There is a clearing and rock bench at the top of this incline with a view of town and the harbor. Continue up the steep switchback trail staying generally to the right at intersections. Notice where the trail appears to be going straight ahead but actually turns sharply right. Going straight here leads to a reservoir and trail to the north end of the lake. It is advised to take the sharp right to access the lake. Shortly ahead at the junction sign the terrain levels out. Turn right to walk along the west shore of the lake. Follow the rolling trail to the south end of the lake. Turn left here across the earthen levy and spillway to hike the rougher trail around the east side of the lake, where you will have to scramble over a few rocks before bearing left to rejoin the main trail and return to the trailhead.
