Cathedral Rock, Hyas Lake — Sunday, Jul. 25, 2021

So, looking for a loop, I discovered Hyas Lake and Cathedral Rock. The Hike along Hyas Lake is easy and nice. Bugs are around at this time of the month, particularly at the north end of the lake. Hyas Lake is inviting so take a dip if you have the time. Most places to sit and view the lake are really campsites, so keep this in mind when looking for a view. Perhaps it’s best to plan a night here and enjoy the scenery. Continuing on I ended up at East End Pass (I think). It’s a connector along the PCT trail and there are plenty of directions to go. I took a sharp left as soon as reached the pass and started back along the other side of the loop. The water coming from Lynch peak can be fun to cross, one in particular is a little dicey, but it’s possible to get across. Afterwards comes the forest of sleeping trees; if you like obstacles and fallen trees in particular look no further! As you cross the area it’s possible to lose the path so make sure you have a map, or an app to help you know if you’ve branched of the beaten path as it’s easy to do. The trail is mostly uphill, and unfortunately there really isn’t much of a view of Hyas Lake on this side of the loop. But you do get up close views of the ominous, Cathedral Rock! Soon the climbing is over and you’re passing through a flat, meadow of sorts, and turning the cornerstone of the cathedral, you get to the intersection. It’s here where you can go behind Cathedral Rock and stay at one of the many lakes back there, such as Deep Lake, or Peggy Lake. Otherwise hike on and follow the Cathedral Rock trail past Squaw Lake and back down to the trailhead. Although, before you get back to the parking lot(s) which are close together, take time to cool off in one of the small lakes along the way! You’ll get back looking fresh and ready for a hike!