Did the Chain Lakes loop counterclockwise by way of Wild Goose Trail. Started our hike at 9am at the Wild Goose trailhead lot by Terminal Lake (right by the Heather Meadows visitor center). The parking lot had tons of room and a well stocked bathroom. From there we took the Wild Goose Trail up to Artist Point to begin the Chain Lakes Trail counterclockwise. This adds a steep extra mile or so to the loop but comes with the benefit of easier parking (Artist Point lot was completely full and we saw cars have to turn around) and no re-ascent to the Artist Point parking lot.
Weather was gorgeous and we enjoyed sweeping views of Shuksan and Baker throughout the entire hike. We lunched at Iceberg Lake (along with many others). Swimming was a perfect way to beat the heat of the day.
Going counterclockwise makes uphill sections steeper but shorter in contrast to a long and slow descent (parking by Terminal Lake avoids the climb back up to the Artist Point lot). Moderate/hard is an apt rating for this hike. The trail is incredibly well maintained so the steep sections are very manageable. Sun exposure and dehydration are what can tip this hike into the hard zone. This hike is mostly exposed which brings gorgeous views but also comes with being in the sun all day. Starting early (we did not and the two pm sun was hot hot hot) and bringing lots of water and sunscreen a must.
This hike is incredibly popular and for good reason. One of the best bang-for-buck hikes in Washington in a difficulty/view tradeoff. The one downside of this popularity was hiking etiquette was largely not observed. Uphill hikers are generally not given the right of way. If you are a stickler for hiking etiquette, I would avoid this hike on weekends lol.
Strava put the total mileage at 7.55 and 1,889 feet.
Hike start: 9:15 am
Iceberg Lake: 11:30 am
Left lake: 12:30 pm
Parking lot: 3:00 pm
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