Hit the west loop out and back to Bogachiel Peak. A challenging but very rewarding day hike. The road up is paved all the way to TH and is usually very busy due to the very popular Sol Duc falls. Arrive early and have your pass on hand.
The trail up to Deer Lake is in great condition albeit very rocky(it's rocky the whole way really, your feet will remind you on the way down). This stretch has plenty of places to fill up on water and contains 3 camps(Canyon Creek) which all seemed like good spots whether you're just starting the loop or on the way out. Deer Lake was quite peaceful and ofc aptly named. Bugs really kicked in from this point on so come prepared with repellent. Just above Deer Lake, the trail navigates through various sub-alpine meadows until you eventually top out on the divide. From this point, there are few snowfields lingering where poles could be useful. Snow was slushy by mid-morning making step kicking easy.
The High Divide traverse & 7 Lakes Basin(still under snow but melting fast) is truly magical. Stunning views, varying alpine terrain, wildlife, wildflower galore. Bogachiel Peak like icing on mountain cake. From this vantage, I couldn't get enough of the commanding view of the Hoh River Valley and glaciated Olympus. A one of a kind view!
Comments
OliviaD on Bogachiel Peak, High Divide - Seven Lakes Basin Loop, Deer Lake
Thanks for posting a report! My group is hiking from Hoh River up around the south side of Bogachiel Peak and on to Deer Lake on July 29. We’ve been warned that the trail is sometimes still under snow in late July. Wondering if you got a look down that southern edge and how the melt is coming along. Will we need ice axes in two weeks from now?
Posted by:
OliviaD on Jul 14, 2021 07:49 AM
Drew Boles on Bogachiel Peak, High Divide - Seven Lakes Basin Loop, Deer Lake
I didn't get a clear look directly south(down) from Hoh lake, however, based on what I observed and the elevation drop, I would say the need is almost zero.
Posted by:
Drew Boles on Jul 14, 2021 09:16 AM
OliviaD on Bogachiel Peak, High Divide - Seven Lakes Basin Loop, Deer Lake
Thanks so much!
Posted by:
OliviaD on Jul 14, 2021 10:05 AM