Kendall Katwalk, Gravel Lake - Ridge Lake — Sunday, Sep. 2, 2012

Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass

Absolutely perfect day for a hike. Trailhead is really easy to find and the parking lot was near full at around 9am. A NW Forest Pass is required to park, so be sure to purchase one. The hike is fairly easy. Not very thigh burning as the switchbacks aren't too frequent and the trail isn't too steep. Watch out for horses and remember to yield to them so they don't get spooked. Also, watch for their droppings. After about 3 miles, the trail opens up. The views are stunning as you get higher. To the south, you can see Mt. Rainier if there aren't many clouds blocking the way. About 200-300 yards (15 mins?) before the Katwalk, there's a nice little rest area where you can pull off and view the steep mountains on the east side. Really cool looking view. You'll know when you're at the Katwalk. The trail is open and the ridge to the east (right side) is really steep. Congrats, you made it! We went further along about a mile out to Gravel Lake. This is a really nice place to rest before turning back around. Took a nice 30 min nap on the rocks on the north side of the lake.