Perfect backpacking weather on the hike in to Stuart Lake with high 70s. Slightly buggy in the expect areas (near boggy, marshy areas and streambeds) - quite a bit better than in '09. Perhaps the mosquitos had already had their fill of weekend hikers!

Enjoyed scenic view break near the far end of Stuart Lake. Campsite (near the 'big rock') seemed less buggy to us, but hikers heading out from their weekend appeared bugged-out.

Continued through the lake-end marsh and anticipated blowdowns (should've counted these, as they're plentiful and at times difficult to pick the trail back up after clamoring over multiple trees at the same time). Great note for those seeking the Horseshoe Lake trail is to keep to the LEFT after the stream on the far side of Stuart Lake (thru the woods) towards the marsh. We noticed many dead-end trails off to the right from hikers seeking the trail last year and didn't make the same mistake this time. You'll be rewarded when finding the rusted horseshoe (I'd suspect this is just after most hikers give up).

Trail heads up severely - indeed a scramble at least a quarter of a time. Quite challenging if you've heavy packs (ours were 25-50 lbs). Elevation profile shows it's about 3/4 of a mile up to the lake with steep, often difficult-to-track trail.

The reward is in the lake. Yes, some bugs (this is August, after all!), but worthy of a few nights' stay and more day-hiking up the scramble to the ridge overlooking Ingall's Lake on the western slope.

An abundance of frisky mountain goats are sure to keep you entertained. Be prepared for thundering hooves and little ones calling out for mom's in the wee hours of the morning. (Some might find this annoying - we found it delightful!).

Plethora of huckleberries found between the trailhead and halfway hill. Keep an eye out for a little brown bear tucked within the bushes!

On Saturday I hiked to Lake Stuart with a friend and his two sons. We camped at the farthest campsite, past the lake inlet. The trail was in great shape and bugs were not out. Sunday morning I hiked past Lake Stuart to Horseshoe Lake. This trail was not maintained, with lots of blowdowns and marshy spots up the valley and then a very steep climb (almost a scramble in places) up to Horseshoe Lake. However it was not hard to follow and Horseshoe Lake was very beautiful, well worth the effort.