Chiwaukum Creek, Larch Lake

Sep 29, 2008: Chiwaukum Lake - Larch Lake – Cup Lake

Last year, around the same time of year as now, I had attempted getting to Larch Lake to enjoy some fall colors. Instead of the brightness of fall I had experienced the monochrome palette of winter: constant precipitation, culminating with 2ft of snow in Ewing Basin, had sapped my will and energy. I had vowed to return and this time, my trip ended up exceeding all expectations: groves of aspens, turning larches, beautiful lakes and gorgeous weather…fall in all her glory.

5:00am had me hiking from the Chiwaukum Creek trailhead in the dark. Sounds of Chiwaukum Creek kept me connected to the now, as I otherwise remained ensconced in the puddle of light cast by my headlamp. An easy grade on beautiful tread made for swift progress…almost too swift: last year I had noted a grove of aspens just prior to the first creek crossing; unfortunately, I had failed to take any photos of these beautiful trees. This time round I was determined to do justice to them, however, it was still too dull for photography…oh well, I’d catch them on the way back…

I crossed the North Fork Chiwaukum Creek on a foot log, followed alongside it for 2mi, then crossed Glacier Creek on a foot bridge and a short while later rock-hopped across the North Fork Chiwaukum Creek. Done with creek crossing it was a steep, brushy ascent to Chiwaukum Lake. Chiwaukum Lake was a real surprise! When I last viewed it, it had been a grey body of water under a lowering sky, with the surroundings a white murk; I hadn’t been much impressed. Now, it was a lovely green color; the surface was mirror-smooth in the still conditions and I had huge fun with the reflections.

Next up, just beyond Chiwaukum Lake, was Ewing Basin. I was really looking forward to it, since even the white blanket I had experienced last time had not hidden its beauty. No lack of color this time: just gorgeous fall colors. Ooh and ahhing, I vended my way beside streams and through the beautiful meadows, through a sensory overload of reds, yellows and greens.

A short ascent, and finally I was at Larch Lake. Again, I was struck by its beauty; I know it’s a recurring theme, but this entire hike was full of surprises. Just when I would think that things couldn’t get any better, they would. The larches were still a week or two from prime time, but I was plenty happy! I spent an hour just wandering around the lake, exploring the outlet and its shores.

Last up was Cup Lake, just a short distance away and up a steep little rocky/grassy slope. Wow! Jade green in color, surrounded by rocky slopes, dotted with larches. Spectacular! I had originally planned to make my visit to Cup Lake short, since I was running close to my turn-around time: I ended up spending an hour up there too.

Finally, it was time to head back, but I had my aspens to look forward to…

Additional photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/72157607610084387

Stats:
- Distance: 25mi
- Elevation gain: 6,200ft (high point: 6,650ft)
- Hiking time: 14.5hrs
- Total trip time: 19hrs

Trip notes:
- All trails in excellent shape
- Fall colors were gorgeous, though the larches still have 1-2wks for primetime