We went up to Rachel Lake this Saturday. The first half of the trail is in great shape: 99% snow free, only one or two blow downs to navigate. Bring waterproof shoes the creek crossings are running high. Trillium and Avalanche Lillies are everywhere.
The second half of the trail involves a few sporting water crossings, and at times the creek is running full down the trail. Way-finding can be a bit tricky in spots with several off trail boot paths often looking more official than the main trail. The water fall in absolutely spectacular in full spring flow! The section above the water fall in particular starts by going right up the stream bed. Shortly after the trail opens up to airy views of hibox, the way becomes snowbound. It's not really possible to follow the trail through this section, but if in doubt go up! A fair amount of way finding is required here. Snow in this section may be around for a few more weeks is my guess. The lake is still frozen over.
Definitely worth the effort! Sun snow and rocky spires, with all the difficulty thinning out the crowds. A turn around at the waterfall would still make for a nice day hike.
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