Meander Meadow - Dishpan Gap - Cady Ridge Loop, Lake Sally Ann — Friday, Jul. 16, 2010

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East

We started mid/late afternoon on Friday, July 16 for a 2-night backpack on this loop, counterclockwise (2 hikers & a dog). The hike up to Meander Meadow was essentially a bush-whack. Lots of bear scat and signs on this trail, but no sightings. The trail was not muddy, but there were a few (2-3) snow crossings on the way up to Meander Meadow (should melt soon). Meander Meadow was still soggy but out of the snow. It's difficult to find a place to hang a bear bag. There are some great campsites here, and a toilet (2, according to the ranger with whom we spoke, though we only saw one). There was no precipitation over night (Friday) but definitely some wind coming from Sauk Pass (junction of Trail #1525 and the PCT). From Sauk Pass, the views of Glacier were terrific. The hike from there to Cady Ridge (and to Lake Sally Ann) was mostly covered in snow. Although there had been folks on the trail earlier (even that day), the sun melted out the tracks so some route-finding was necessary. Some areas were somewhat steep, but definitely passable (trail should be fine in a week or two.) The wind the night before took out two big trees in a snow field. Wear sunscreen while on the snow! We took a side trip to Lake Sally Ann - was all ice and snow (see photo) - no camping here right now. The transition from the PCT to the Cady Ridge Trail (#1532) was rough - the trail virtually disappeared in all of the snow. However, we found it after about 2 miles. Just stay at 5500 ft on the right (S) side of the ridge. Wildflowers are starting in the meadows about 5500 ft. Beautiful. The hike along the ridge was gorgeous, but pretty buggy. They swarmed when we set up camp. Awoke early (awesome sunrise) the next day to avoid the bugs and get a start on the day. The final jaunt was quick though, we were back at the car by 9 a.m. We wished it had lasted a little longer.