Wedged between craggy Thunder and Spark Plug mountains, these two lakes are set in a truly electrifying environment, flanked by towering evergreens and slopes of shiny granite ledges and talus. But even more stimulating than these aquatic gems is the forest that lines the trail leading to them. It's one of the finest tracts of old growth along the US 2 corridor.

Begin by walking a short distance up a powerline service road. In 0.2 mile turn left onto real trail, and real nice trail at that. On good tread, sturdy stairs, and solid planking, head up the narrow Surprise Creek valley through a magnificent forest of ancient cedars and giant hemlocks. Soon enter the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, its designation guaranteeing that those giant arboreal elders' lives won't be cut short.

At about 1.3 miles the trail crosses cascading Surprise Creek on a big log. Note previous log crossings strewn about in the creek's bed. Then skirt beneath avalanche slopes and undulate between patches of brush and groves of majestic primeval forest as the trail continues upvalley. Tumbling Surprise Creek, always nearby, provides constant visual and audio delights.

At about 3 miles begin climbing more steeply. At 4.5 miles, after winding around talus and ascending steep forested slopes, reach a trail junction just shy of Surprise Lake. The trail left climbs briskly toward Trap Pass to connect with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Continue right, traversing a marshy meadow and a precarious creek crossing to reach Surprise Lake.

A popular backpacking destination with its numerous designated campsites, the lake is well-loved by day hikers too. Treat it well. Find a quiet shoreline ledge or boulder to soak rays or feet. While away the afternoon here, or continue farther to bigger and prettier Glacier Lake by continuing south along the trail, climbing a rib between Surprise Lake on the right and a cascading creek on the left.

About 0.5 mile beyond Surprise Lake, reach a junction with the PCT (elev. 4900 ft). Left goes to Trap Pass. Continue straight. Come to a big granite talus slope just after passing a tarn tucked below on the left. Locate an unmarked but obvious trail heading right. Take it, passing an old Snoqualmie National Forest sign and dropping steeply 50 feet or so to granite-bound Glacier Lake (elev. 4800 ft).

No glaciers, lots of granite, this lake along with Surprise are also known as the Scenic Lakes. Can't argue with that moniker.