Be sure to carry Coast Guard approved safety devices and life jackets. Even in the summer, the water temperature in Ross Lake seldom gets above 50 degrees F. Always carry raingear, extra food, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Store all food out of reach of bears and other wildlife. Carry out all trash. Use driftwood for firewood, cutting of any standing tree is prohibited.
Two graded cement ramps at Hozomeen are normally usable from mid-June through September. Alternately, canoes, kayaks and small craft can be launched at Colonial Creek Campground, boated five miles on Diablo Lake, then portaged around Ross Dam to Ross Lake. To avoid the mile long 600 foot climb, boaters can contact Ross Lake Resort (206-386-4437) to haul canoes and motorboats under 14 feet for a fee.
Issue : You have to put in Diablo Lake, paddle 5 miles, pay portage fee of 25 per canoe each way to Ross Lake, so you need more than 3 days for this trip to do it justice.