Lake Serene, Bridal Veil Falls — Saturday, Jul. 6, 2024

Hiked to the falls first and then the lake. I wouldn't be convinced to go up to the falls if I had left it for second. The hike up to Lake Serene is brutal. It's a stair master most of the way, some stone steps, some stairs, some stairs with stone, some high steps, some loose rock steps, but not too many rooty places. Giant old trees, lots of berry bushes and the mosquitos will find you if you hold still but bug spray held them off. Only three parties with boom box music (sorry guys, but that is just super ick) so that's better than other trails lately. Dogs mostly on leash, would be cool to see that at 100% especially those of you with the less than chill doggos. Very busy trail, parking lot full at 8am. Sun was brutal and the forest shade a great relief. Stopped on the way down to lay on the giant rocks of the waterfall past Bridal Veil cutoff. Highly recommend this pause on the return. I'm already a water buffalo, but this hike took four liters to feel hydrated, lots of snacks and a lunch.