Island Lake
Nov 14, 2008
by
bev
—
last modified
Sep 19, 2011 03:23 PM
- Type of Outing
- Day hike
- Read More in our Hiking Guide
- Hike: Island Lake - Rainbow Lake
- Region: Snoqualmie Pass -- Snoqualmie Pass
- Agency: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Snoqualmie Ranger District, North Bend Office
- Trails: Island Lake (#1009)
- Avg Rating: 3.20
- Be Aware Of
- Water on trail
- Snow on trail
Our group of 6 had planned to hike Eagle Peak Saddle but with the temporary Park closure at Nisqually entrance, we headed for Island and Rainbow Lakes, from Pratt/Granite trailhead, I 90 exit 47.
There were about 100 good-natured soldiers milling around the trailhead, getting ready for their share of exercise. We waved as we heard them say “You guys do this for FUN” !!
Initially a bit windy with nippy temps, we soon warmed up. There are a number of stream crossings, however mind when crossing the fast creek a little east of pratt/granite junction (see pic) The trail currently has an extraordinary volume of water spilling down in numerous spots; we all used heel power to help divert a few bad spots and to clear debris from established channels.
We encountered snow around 3800 feet, 1 1/2 inches tops, and instep crampons and yaks were very handy for slick icy spots on trail down to Island Lake and a few of the old puncheons. Rainbow Lake is already partially frozen. Keep eye on turnaround time, dusk comes pretty fast these days; all in all, a most enjoyable and interesting hike.
Stats: around 3200 gain , 11 plus miles. Maps GT 206 + 207
There were about 100 good-natured soldiers milling around the trailhead, getting ready for their share of exercise. We waved as we heard them say “You guys do this for FUN” !!
Initially a bit windy with nippy temps, we soon warmed up. There are a number of stream crossings, however mind when crossing the fast creek a little east of pratt/granite junction (see pic) The trail currently has an extraordinary volume of water spilling down in numerous spots; we all used heel power to help divert a few bad spots and to clear debris from established channels.
We encountered snow around 3800 feet, 1 1/2 inches tops, and instep crampons and yaks were very handy for slick icy spots on trail down to Island Lake and a few of the old puncheons. Rainbow Lake is already partially frozen. Keep eye on turnaround time, dusk comes pretty fast these days; all in all, a most enjoyable and interesting hike.
Stats: around 3200 gain , 11 plus miles. Maps GT 206 + 207
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trail above Island Lake
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