Had wanted to do this hike for a while, ever since someone told us this was one of the most beautiful hikes in the area. It certainly does not disappoint! Arrived to the trailhead at 8:30 am to a full parking lot. WTA is doing trail work at Lake Ann this weekend, so that was no surprise. Found roadside parking very easily. Add some extra layers for the cool morning temperatures and head down the soft tread. The soft trail gave way to rockier tread but the peek-a-boo views of Mount Baker, wreathed in low clouds, kept things interesting. The wildflowers are mostly spent but oh, the huckleberries are coming into their own. Highly recommend bringing a small baggie along to store your precious finds for later snacking! Saw many backpackers returning from their overnight stay but did not see many people going our way.
Heard the whistles of marmots and “eeps” of pika, but alas, no sightings. Lots of berry stained bear scat on the trail, but no sightings. Arrived at the junction with the Swift Creek Trailhead (apparently part of the Pacific NW Trail) but could not find the privy mentioned in the WTA report. From here, the trail really begins to ascend over rocky talus but breath-taking views of Mount Baker really open up as you traverse the switchbacks. Taking photos is a nice excuse for catching your breath and admiring the scenery. Your views of Mount Baker disappear as you make the last push for the saddle but you get your first view of Lake Ann.
From the saddle, your first view of Lake Ann may seem disappointing (at least it was to me, the lake seems so, so small!) but as you make your way down, the charm of the area overcomes your senses as Mt Shuksan (which was just a tiny peek view on your left at the saddle) looms over you and the crystal clear waters of Lake Ann start to sparkle. The campsites around the lake come into view and upper and lower Curtis glacier is really in your face. This basin view with the lake and the looming Mount Shuksan is reminiscent of Lake Ingalls with Mount Stuart in the background.
We saw many people swimming in the water and dogs enjoying water play. The campsites filled as quickly as overnight people left their camp. Would highly recommend arriving in the morning if you want a prime camping spot. Despite the large number of people arriving after us, the lake did not feel crowded.
Face mask use was about 30-40%. Interestingly, the smaller groups of people (3 or fewer) tended to wear masks. The larger groups of people (four or more) tended to be totally mask-less with minimal to no attempt to cover their faces. Just an interesting observation.
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