Blanca Lake — Thursday, Jul. 3, 2025

I hadn't been to this trail in several years (and it was November previously), so it was time for a return trip. I started around 7am, and would probably have liked to been a couple hours later for better lighting on the lake, but I was limited on time today. The switchbacks are much more pleasant with a little more greenery, but still required a few breaks. The only snow I encountered was around Virgin Lake, and it was easy to cross. The trail from there down to Blanca was a bit muddy and wet, so it could be slippery without the right shoes. Poles were very helpful for my 40 year old runner's knees. It took me about 4:20 including a break at the lake, and I moved pretty quickly downhill when the trail wasn't overly rocky/rooty. Would suffer through this one again! The lake is beautiful and well worth the climb.