Lots of trilliums along the trail, no snow & only two logs to step over, one to go under.
We spent a pleasant afternoon on a very nice hike in perfect spring weather on this well-traveled, easy trail, admiring moss and big rocks, bright greenery, big trees and roaring water. On our scenic snack stop on a huge rock overlooking the lake, we watched the floating logs slowly drift in the breeze.
There were about 20 cars at the trailhead, and about that many hikers scattered along the trail, including several with dogs, one with a fish pole (no fish caught), and a young boy with a pack containing a sleeping bag and a couple light sabers he was willing to show and share. Fun for all!

Being a family of newbie hikers, I chose Lena Lake as a good starter hike. After reading the (not so shiny)site description of this trail I wanted to give the trail the benefit of the doubt since the reviews were all decent. We drove almost 2 hours to the trailhead and started the hike just after 9am. There were about 10 cars there so far. We started the hike in the beautiful Olympics full of energy and excitement on our first hike. We took off our jackets within the first 10 minutes of the hike as the weather was off to a perfect Spring day start in the upper 70s. On the way up we passed only a few hikers while we took our time, took pictures and enjoyed the journey. The forest, moss covered boulders and sound of the waterfall were refreshing in the shade of the trees. The last 10 minutes before reaching the lake were the hardest being more steep and rocky then the rest on the trail, but well worth the push when we found the view of the glistening lake peaking between the trees. When we stepped out onto the rock face on the edge of the lake, we had to just admire this gem in silence. We found a nice spot on the rock and sat to have some lunch in the sun. Only a few other folks occupied the rock face at that time. We then packed up and continued on around the lake a short distance until we found a well used beach area (with burn pit) to get closer to the water and dip our feet in. Traffic was beginning to pick up as we heard folks across the lake and passing by on the trail behind us. After relaxing a bit we again packed up and continue on another few minutes where we found a restroom. I was somewhat disappointed to find a (locked)restroom facility so far up in the woods but soon realized that with the amount of hikers, this convenience of modern facilities provide the domesticated with comforts of home. We turned around and headed back from there and enjoyed the hike down the best we could in between stopping for other hikers going up or down the trail. As the traffic(including the family dogs)picked up I thought maybe a roundabout would soon be another convenient addition to the trail. About 30+ cars were parked at the trailhead by the time we made it down. The weather was gorgeous and it couldn't have been a better day for a hike! Needless to say this trail was definitely popular, well established and a great trail for other newbies wanting to get into hiking and looking for a trail not too long or challenging or too short and easy. If you are looking for a wilderness experience to "get away from the rat race" then this trail is not for you. The hike itself was just enough of a challenge to keep a new hiker wanting more. Round trip hike was 4 hours with 2 adults, 1 teen, 2 preteens. My legs and feet were sore and I can't wait to hit the trails again!

The hike was real joy. Sunny, mild wind, and a few hikers. Trail was in good shape up to the lower lake. The loop trail above the lower lake was filled with downed trees. Will need quite a bit of effort to clear. Lunch at Lower Lena was worth the trip with it being sunny and peaceful.

A 98% full moon finally made it over the ridge top at 11:15 PM. My fire was into its 3rd hour. The moon spread over the forest like a curtain being lifted, lighting up the white barked forest behind me. At dusk the high pitched call (whistle) of the Varied Thrush could be heard, along with other birds; then it got quiet (really quiet). No snow, no trash and only one other couple camping for the night. On the way down about ten other day-hikers heading up and two guys headed to the high country (The Brothers) with ropes and other climbing gear. First time back here in 30 years, well worth the trip with the pleasant weather and sunshine. I had to use a 800 down base layer and 15 degree bag to stay warm in the tent. Hope to get to the upper lake after the snow melt. This trip was about as perfect as an backpacking "adventure" can be.