Set out to hike up to Rampart Lakes, but we're caught in horrible I90 traffic - so we decided to hike and camp at Rachel Lake instead. It was beautiful out, however the was a persistent hum of mosquito in the air. In the evening the bugs were tempered by wind. If you're brave enough to swim, the water is cold, but you'll be safe from the bugs in there. 

If your planning an overnight trip, it's worth noting nearly all the campsites taken when we got there ~5:00pm. 

All and all wonderful trip.

Started our hike around 7PM on Friday, after getting through traffic at the pass.  Parking lot had some cars in it, but plenty of space.  Our goal was to get up to the Rampart Lakes by 9:30PM so we could set up camp with what little bit of light was left.

Trail was in good condition, a few creeks and streams to cross over, but nothing difficult.

The first evening was very windy up at Rampart Lakes, which was nice because the bugs couldn't swarm around for too long, but it got pretty chilly at night.

On Saturday we did a day hike to Lila Lake and Alta Mountain. As long as we were moving the bugs didn't bother us too much, but staying close to any body of water for too long showed how many there actually were.  Got back to camp around 1pm, had lunch and did a loop of the Rampart lakes to see how busy it had become.  Very few campsites left by this time, so be sure to plan on getting here early if you want a spot on a Saturday.

Left on Sunday, passed a few backpackers headed up to spend the night, and a lot of day hikers.  When we got back to the car around 11AM, both parking lots was completely full, and cars were along the road for at least half a mile, with more slowly trickling down the road.

My daughter and I arrived in the parking lot around 10:30a. The lot was filling up but not full. 

Bring mosquito repellent and apply it before you start. We reapplied on the trail.

I really enjoyed this hike. On paper it was similar to other hikes we’ve done this summer - around 8 miles and 1600 feet of elevation gain. In reality it is much harder. The mile with all of the elevation gain is mostly in a sometimes dry, sometimes wet creek bed. We ended up off trail a couple of times. I’d say when in doubt stay in the creek bed even if that seems like not the likely route. 

Mask wearing was about 50/50 but even though the lot was filling we didn’t come across too many people. 

I recommend this hike. There are great views, flowers, waterfalls, creek crossings and the lake. 

My first time hiking a trail this long. It is an absolutely BEAUTIFUL trail - lots of waterfalls, variety in views and landscape and a lovely lake at the end. We also had a gorgeous sunny day. There were a lot of streams and places where you have to cross some running water as well as mud. We second guessed ourselves a few times on the path since some parts aren’t obvious and/or look more like streams than trail. I am not an outdoor expert by any means and neither was my friend but we managed to figure it out. Just know that it’s not always obvious and might not be a bad idea to get the map if you’ve never been here and are more on the novice side of hiking. I would absolutely recommend hiking boots because of the mud and water as well as the variety of terrain. We didn’t have poles and weren’t necessary but they wouldn’t be a bad idea if they make you feel more comfortable or help you with endurance.

We got to the trailhead around 8:45 am. Lots of people in the lot but not full. We only saw 2 or 3 groups on the way up. On the way down we passed about 6. Not everyone was wearing a mask which is disappointing but we were and just turned away as they passed. We didn’t stay long at the top because the mosquitos were HORRIBLE. So many mosquitos. There were a lot along the trail (especially by the water of course) but the lake was almost unbearable. You need good repellent. I had on a citronella/lemongrass natural spray - it helped some but was not sufficient. We were back to our car at about 2:30 pm. The parking lot was full.

My legs were tired at the end of the hike but I highly recommend it. Just need to prepare well for mosquitos.

Summary: Very popular hike. Starts gentle, ends difficult. Lake is beautiful and populated. A medium sized parking lot is available with overflow parking down the side of the road.

Got in late around 9:30am. Parking lot was full and cars were lined down both sides of the road. There was still space further down the road but you have to walk a bit extra. No problem for you cause you’re prepared to walk anyway! 

Everyone is required to fill out a free permit at the trail entrance for the Forest Service. The first few miles of the trail wind through beautiful old growth hemlock forest and are flat. Lichen are thriving here! There is one section that is overgrown but not so much that long pants are required. You will see a large waterfall and shortly after you ascend steeply. During the ascent you can observe beautiful wild flowers basking in the sunlight.

The trail is basically a creek bed in some parts of the ascent. There are also several spurs that lead no where so be aware where you’re heading. Nothing difficult in terms of route finding though.

I arrived at the lake around 11:30 and there were many backpackers set up and people fishing. I ventured around the lake a bit to find a socially distant place to eat lunch. There was at least one group who was obnoxious and yelling loudly which was not appreciated. Allow others to enjoy nature people!

The descent was a little easier in terms of route finding since I already knew where to go. I didn’t venture to Lila lake or Rampart lakes but would like to in the future. This area is beautiful and the heavy use speaks to that.