My Garmin watch clocked a little over 8 miles round trip, and the elevation gain in those first 3 miles was a great workout. Definitely got my heart rate up! The hike through the forest was lovely, but Blanca Lake was unreal. I think my exact words (that I said out loud to myself) were “holy f**king s**t” once I got my first glimpse of the lake. Incredibly beautiful and totally worth it!

Took a much needed mid-week hike with my 14 year old son. We hit the parking lot at 0900 on Thursday, maybe 3 cars in the lot. I used Topo Maps + to track mileage and elevation. Started hiking at 0915 - got to the lake right at noon. Bugs we're too bad, but temps were in the low 60's. At about 3 miles you hit the highest point - no major obstacles - some trees over the trail - but easily navigated. From the "summit" to the lake there were lots of slick root ladders and this part of the trail feels steeper than any other parts - but again - not bad. Had lunch overlooking the lake. Too cold to swim but very tempting.  Explored the outflow creek and falls then hit the trail at about 12:45.As it warmed up - the bugs started coming out but weren't too bad. Got back to the lot at 3. Knees were screaming but we were moving quickly as we had to get back for evening plans. We each brought two liters of water and a filter. Finished all of it and didn't refill anywhere- although if it had been warmer - we would have needed to. 

Terrific hike - amazing lake. Its an amazing backdrop with the glacier and waterfalls and the wonderful green water color. Highly recommend  - and one of our new favorite hikes.

The hike and lake was gorgeous! It’s 9 miles (versus 8 miles as noted). It was very peaceful and lots of berries on the trail to munch on. We got there at 6:45AM and only 3 cars parked at that time. It was nice to hike up early because of the nice cool weather. As we were coming back, it definitely felt warmer. We got back at 1:30PM and the parking lot was full. Bring more than 2 liters of water, electrolytes, and enough food. Hiking poles are encouraged as well. Bring bugspray! The lake is just stunning! 

Hiked on August 9th, 2024. The parking lot was nearly full by 10 AM. Facilities are open, and a Northwest Forest Pass is required. If it's your first time hiking this trail, be aware that the last 2-5 miles to the trailhead are on a gravel road with some potholes. Any vehicle can make it, but you may need to drive slowly. The trail is completely clear of snow and debris. Bugs were a bit of a nuisance, especially mosquitoes. I've recently switched to using vanilla extract instead of DEET—it works well against mosquitoes, but flies seem unaffected. On the plus side, if you plan on taking a dip in the beautiful, refreshing water, you won't be introducing harmful pesticides into the environment. Tasty huckleberries are plentiful, especially after you pass the 37 switchbacks. The water is just the right temperature—slightly chilly but still warm enough to enjoy. I’ve made a video with more details if you're interested—feel free to check it out!

https://youtu.be/0ZzpwDrRtVk

The road there turns into gravel with lots of potholes. I was glad to be in my friend's truck and not my little car. I'd say this hike is not ideal for beginners who don't have much stamina, but definitely a great hike. You go up a lot of incline and then you decline quite a ways to get to the lake. This is where it gets pretty challenging as far as finding your footing amongst roots and rocks. The lake is spectacular once you get there. The bugs weren't too bad although I did get harassed several times by some buzzing insects. SPECIAL NOTE: I'm seeing various statements regarding how long this hike is (7.5 miles, 8 miles, etc) According to my pedometer, this hike was 10 miles and it definitely felt like 10!