Chelan Lakeshore Trail — Saturday, May. 11, 2024

Been doing this hike since 1999....one of my favorite early or late season hikes to do, especially with first timers to backpacking. Lady of the Lake ferry crew and ships always do a great job and the drop offs at Prince Creek are sure a lot easier now...thanks! So April-May or late Sept-Oct are best times for this hike. Weather,bugs,flowers and foliage are best for these dates...mid week better since weekends get crowded.....this trip was probably 50 getting off at Prince Creek. Trail was in great shape, plenty of water in creeks to Moore Point . No snakes this year and no ticks, few flies but hottest days of Spring...bad luck...85 to 90 degrees. Up and down, around and forth....great views..snow level at 4K...but stepping past really good camp at Cascade creek at 5+ miles....then a woodsy camp at Meadow creek at 6+ miles. If doing a 3 day trip, good places to stop. We always go to Moore Point, huge area that accommodated 50 hikers plus a work crew...11+ miles. Great area to camp with docks for boats...missed Northern Lights by one night!

Up early next morning at 530, great morning walk up Hunt Bluff. Then down to Flick Creek shelter. One of my favorite shelters in PNW....worth it especially in Oct to stay at it. Bottle of Ardbeg, fire, food and friends with that view and lake 30 feet away on a October evening is lasting. Short Up out of shelter and then a mosey along the lake and woods, easier day than yesterday into Stehekin. Cafe has been thru some remodels now, really good menu and service. Didn't do bakery or Rainbow Falls...worth doing.

Just enjoyed the sun and breeze, caught the big Lady back to Fields Point. It was their second run of the year, I like it for going back because it's bigger, more comfortable, restrooms and food/ drink. This hike is no secret anymore but will always recommend it for anyone that wants to experience the PNW.....happy trails.