I arrived at the trailhead around 2 PM. The parking area was quite full, with many cars parked and others lined along the roadside. After parking, I started climbing the trail, which had a steady incline with switchbacks and a gradual elevation gain. The path was mostly well-marked, with some routes along tree roots, but overall, it was easy to follow. I encountered a lot of fellow hikers both ascending and descending the trail.
The trail initially went under tree cover until I reached a point where open meadows began. Here, the trail started to ascend more steeply into the mountains. The meadows offered a beautiful backdrop of the mountains, and the sound of the road gradually faded away, signaling proximity to the lake.
Upon reaching the top, there were two trails around the lake: one to the right, which featured a large rock ideal for resting and enjoying snacks, and one to the left, which allowed closer access to the water for dipping feet. I first explored the right side, capturing pictures and videos with a stunning view of the lake. Then, I moved to the left side, where I could see fish swimming close to the shore and took more photos in a peaceful setting.
On the descent, I encountered a family of four mountain goats on the trail, which was a delightful sight. I managed to capture some adorable pictures of them. The hike down was quicker, and I arrived back at the trailhead relatively fast compared to the ascent. Overall, it was a beautiful and memorable hike.
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