First time out on this one beautiful hike. Arrived 12:30pm to a full lot, but took the 2nd shoulder parking spot available, with plenty more room for more. Passed 3 parties at the start of our hike and probably could have snagged a spot in the lot if we had waited 5 more minutes. Passed probably 7-8 parties heading out (mostly day hikers) on our way to the lake (some single, couples or groups up to 4). Almost everyone masked up as they passed. As we were heading in, most people expected us to stop (even when we were the ones heading uphill), and we stepped to the side and masked up. This meant we spent a bit of time waiting for passer-bys and added to our total trip time by at least 20 min.
Amazing views the entire hike, creeks, peaks, Mt Baker, Mt Shuksan, talus slopes, wildflowers, huckleberries, meadows, picas, just really enjoyable. We had our hiking poles out the whole time and they helped me catch myself a few times when rocks rolled under my feet on the talus slope.
The snow crossing was literally 7 steps total, easily doable. A little icey after some rain in the morning, so just took it slow with intentional heel digs. The path is currently close to a large boulder that is melting out underneath, so care should be taken and probably a new path formed away from the hollow parts.
There were 4 tents already up by the time we arrived, and another 4 parties came in throughout the afternoon and into the late evening. We enjoyed a very quick dip in the freezing glacier lake with some onlookers who had already done the same and we found enjoyable to talk to. It was easy to maintain seclusion from others and it was an extremely peaceful time. The glaciers and waterfalls from Mt Shuksan can be seen and heard from camp.
Some toilet paper around, but sites were mostly free of plastics and other trash. The pistachio nuts and dog poop by the site down by the lake were disappointing to see, as were the fire pits in almost every single established site, despite permanent no campfire signs.
My already tight psoas really suffered on the way back, but can't wait to do this one again already.
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