Blanca Lake

It is hard to add anything new to all of the descriptions posted already. It is truly the most unusual and beautiful lake I have been to for some time. It had a striking green color, set in a very pretty cirque. The trail climbs in a very nice forest and then descends to the lake.
 
Now for some things to consider. This is a difficult trail, both in the elevation gain and the condition of the trail. The trail gains a little over 2700 feet in three miles. It is relentless, steady up. It feels like Mt Si but at least it is just a 3 mile climb vs Si’s 4 miles. Most of this section of the trail has good tread, just a few sections of rocks. Then the trail descends about 650 feet in about 0.5 miles to the lake. Craig Romano's Day Hiking book refers to this section as having “rough-at-times tread”. This is steep and has sections of roots, rocks, loose dirt and big steps. Careful footing is important. The total elevation gain, in and out, is 3400 feet in 7 miles (says the book) or 8 miles (my GPS). This trail is for experienced hikes only. Trekking poles highly recommended.

By the way, no bugs!!!!