Went for a training hike with a weighted pack, up to Deer Lake and back. Started pretty late for my goal of 16 miles, it was 10am by the time I started. My garmin watch may have mislead me into doing more than 16 (lately it hasn't been matching WTA's stats, undercounting by about a mile. Anyone else have this issue?). The first 5 miles were a breeze, lovely forest, minimal bug activity. Big Creek falls is lovely, and a nice ledge on the bridge to sit for a moment.
Once you reach the junction for Snoqualmie lake, you start gaining some elevation. More beautiful forest, old growth trees and you get some views of the surrounding mountains. It was a bit of a slog towards the lake, areas of overgrown plants, multiple blowdowns and rocky, rooty, muddy trail. Bugs increased as well, but thankfully they were mostly gnats and not mosquitoes. Snoqualmie lake is nice, but better views to be had if you head up the trail towards Deer Lake. Deer Lake was very peaceful and quiet. Only saw two backpackers up there, and the bugs were gone! Had a quick snack, rested a few minutes and had to hoof it down as it was already 2pm and I had to work later. Feet had some things to say about that. Back to the car 5:45pm. If you're looking for a way to make miles and do it quick, this is a good choice!
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