Lake Ingalls — Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024

I’ve never been swept away by Larch Madness but this year I was feeling it.  I don’t think I could tolerate the weekend frenzy so was fortunate enough to be able to go today.  Rain was in the forecast and cold temps to start so figured there would not be as many people.  Left town early and go to the trailhead at 0730 with maybe 5-6 cars in the lot and a few still left on the road from previous days.  The trail in the forest is moderate and a bit dry.  So so quiet when getting away from the river.  Then after a mile in, you start the exposed switchbacks up to the pass.  There are a few rock exposed areas to cross and the serpentine can be slippery.  Used poles which are always helpful.  High clouds rolled in but no precip as we got to the pass.  The breeze kicked up so we layered up and had a snack while watching the clouds occasionally lift from the summit of Stuart.  The larch looked fantastic and I’d say about 60-70% peaked but there is still some green on several trees.  There was some sunlight peaking through the clouds to add to the color palate for the day as it was delightful to just gaze at your surroundings.  We stayed higher on the ridge, off to the left and took this trail all the was to the lake.  There is talus crossing just past the pass and about 1/2 mile from the lake which also offers a descent scramble up a rock gulley to the lake.  The lake was still and Mt Stuart was mostly socked in.  No goats to be seen today. The large rocks to traverse over create additional technical aspects to this hike.  Good footwear is essential.  Remembering the serpentine can be slick places.  Saw 2 others at the pass on the way, maybe 25 people on the trail heading in after us and 1 dog (which are not allowed on this trail).  All and all a great day in Teanaway to see the larch in bloom this season.