Palisades Lakes — Friday, Aug. 2, 2024

This trail is absolutely worth dealing with the flies and mosquitoes! This was our second time doing this trail and it hasn't disappointed with its wildlife sightings! We saw pikas, a family of sooty grouse, and a black bear (in Bear Park).

We started the trail later than usual (11:30) because we had an afternoon timed entry. It was hot, but not unbearable. The lake's are absolutely beautiful. Clover Lake was enticing. We were going to swim on the way back, but we decided against it and are so glad we did or we wouldn't have seen the bear! ALL the elevation is on the way back, which makes it especially challenging on a hot day.

In all, this trail is really well maintained. There is shade throughout and you'll get peaks of pretty much everything! Alpine forest, meadow, lakes, creeks, mountain views. The wildflowers are in full bloom and probably have another few weeks before they are done. We saw lupine, paintbrush, aster, lovage, and pasque flower. This trail is usually pretty empty, which makes it special in the Sunrise area. 

Have fun!