First things first -- this trail is worth the work, but as the trail description and reports indicate, it is confusing. About 2.5 miles in, the whole thing becomes an existential meditation on the nature of our movement through the world. How do we decide which paths to take? If a lot of people take an unsanctioned route, does that become the true path? Does the "true path" even exist? Regardless of how you answer those questions, download a map, grab a hiking buddy, and make your peace with doubling back a few times.

Okay, back to the beginning. I arrived right at 8:00am after crawling over the four miles of washboarded road that leads to the trailhead. I don't think any extra clearance is needed, but getting above 20 mph will be difficult for most cars. The lot was almost full, with the marked spots already taken. But another half-dozen cars or so (including myself) thought creatively and found some more spaces. I'm guessing the full lot was the result of backpackers from the night before, as the trail wasn't too packed. When I returned around 2:00pm, the lot was truly full, with cars parked along the side of the road. The trailhead toilet is shockingly nice, though devoid of toilet paper in the morning.

My hike began with a bit of foreshadowing. Within what seemed like minutes of setting out, I stepped over some branches blocking the path and found myself bushwhacking through an overgrown connector trail. As it turns out, the actual trail veered to the left, switchback-style, a bit before my misstep. While I wish I could tell you that those branches in the trail were a reliable indicator of where to go or not go, they weren't -- there were plenty of times I had to clamber over or around deadfall of all sizes. Trees fall where they want.

The first two to three miles are relatively relaxed -- and, thanks to recent rains, extra soggy, lush, and magical. There were lots of stream crossings, muddy segments, and a couple of waterfalls to boot. I strongly recommend waterproof footwear -- not all of the stream crossings have rocks or logs, and even some of the ones that do are easier handled by splashing through.

Just before the three mile mark, at the first major waterfall, the climbing and confusion begins. Several of the waterfalls have social trails following the river or getting closer to the falls. Most end up at a nice picture spot, peter out, and then are followed by a half-trail blazed by panicked hikers looking for the main trail. An easier and more ecologically-sensitive trail can generally be found with a bit of backtracking. But you can usually find your way back from anywhere by looking for hints of a trail. (One exception: I went straight up, and then back down, a rock slab at some point. I'm convinced there has to be a better way.)

During this stretch, I found myself thankful for the occasional crowds and glommed on awkwardly to hiking parties. They often didn't know where they were going either, but at least we could avoid the spooky feeling of being fully lost and alone in the woods. One hiker who had the done the trail before told me that the trails all link up again, which seemed true after a certain point.

After a decent climb, Rachel Lake appears, surprisingly large and tinged with turquoise. From there, a joint trail leads to Rampart and Lila Lakes. There's another climb here -- one of the longer half-miles I've ever hiked -- but after the split for Lila Lake, the trail turns into a highlight reel for PNW hiking: big valley views, a huge alpine meadow, and the laugh-out-loud gorgeous Lila Lake basin. I ended up calling it at the overlook because the view was so spectacular (and the blueberries -- technically bilberries -- so plentiful). Next time, I'll bring some overnight gear and head down to the lake.

The way back was still confusing at times, but for the most part, experience, perspective, and a chorus of helpful hikers made it easier (and faster). Life's like that too, isn't it? Call it the last of the many life lessons Lila Lake has to offer -- or, at least, the last of the many loopy thoughts I had while wandering the many trails here. 

Saw lots of pikas, ground squirrels, and chipmunks. Heard a marmot. Also had close encounters with some chestnut-backed chickadees. The final stretch to Lila Lakes was surprisingly chilly, and I found myself wishing I had an extra layer. But the stiff breeze and cooler temps kept the bugs at bay: I heard one mosquito buzz, but otherwise, no bites despite not using any bug spray. My trip up took about three hours; the way down about two-and-a-half. 

One of the most beautiful trail (to lake) I’ve completed this summer. Almost entire trail twines the Box canyon creek. Many accessible points to the creek/waterfalls.

One caveat - other hikers and myself lost a few times as 1) rain washed trail or turned some trail as a stream 2) wild branches/ leaves grown over the trail 3) indeed some cut trails perhaps by visitors
***if the way led you far away from the creek, it was likely not the right path

Saturday parking - arrived 8:20 many available spots, returned 12:00 still a few available. Perhaps because of the rainy weather yesterday and today.

Highlights by mileage-

1.5 berry fields
—2.5lost, right way is to cross the creek
2.7 elevation start
—2.8 lost, right way is to cross the creek
—3,3 lost
3.4 view of Hibox Mt
—3.5 lost
4 Rachel lake (a gloomy day)

Lost a pair of multicolor Tevas between Rachel Lake and the trailhead. Please email miguelp1120@gmail.com if you find them!!

p.s. we loved this trip (except for losing the shoes)!!! 

Lost a light gray Teva hiking down from Rachel lake. If someone can bring it back to Seattle I will be so grateful!

Beautiful lake, must swim!

LOST MY IPHONE. Was swimming around Rampart Lakes and it must have fallen out of my backpack when I put it down. If found, please contact 425-275-1273.

Black iPhone in black case.