Lake Janus and Grizzly Peak — Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024

Smithbrook Trailhead was a zoo. I've never seen it that crazy before. People parking on both sides of the gravel road making it impossible for cars to get in or out easily. I don't think a horse trailer or SAR emergency vehicle would have made it through the gauntlet. I want people to enjoy the outdoors on these nice days but we got to work together and not park like a-holes just because you want to be closer to the trailhead. I hopped off my soap box and made it through the sea of people and sometimes leashed dogs. Everyone was headed to Lake Valhalla, which is worthy of the hype. Once I turned north on PCT, there was no one. On my way to Lake Janus, I saw 3 other groups. Then after that I didn't see anyone. Roughly 2 miles after Lake Janus, you get a knock view of Glacier Peak and little further is an unmarked turnoff for the Glasses Lake viewpoint. This was my turn around point. Just under 12 miles. I might have pressed on to Grizzly if it weren't so late in the day. Glad I turned right when everyone else turned left.