I got a late start on my hike, so I only made it about 6.4 miles in and didn’t reach Berkeley Camp. But honestly, that was far enough to enjoy an incredible display of wildflowers. The elevation gain was about 1,200 feet. This is probably my favorite hike in the park. The wildflowers are an obvious highlight, but what I love even more is how quiet and peaceful it feels.
After passing Frozen Lake, I saw only three other groups in the next three hours—a family returning from camp, a couple doing butterfly research, and another couple. Another reason I love this trail is that although the return trip is mostly uphill, it’s a very gentle incline. There are just a couple of easy stair sections, which is perfect for my janky knees. Plus, there are no steep drop-offs, and the trail isn’t rocky except around Sourdough Ridge. Unlike many hikes from Sunrise, there’s plenty of shade and a lovely creek where I always stop for lunch and to cool my feet in the cold water.
Yesterday was the first day for timed entry reservations, and I’m a HUGE fan. There were no lines at the gate, parking was easy, and the trails weren’t crowded. I grabbed my reservation when new spots opened at 7 pm the night before. I did that all last summer—just be ready to book right at 7.
Conditions were great—no snow anywhere, and wildflowers are at their peak. There’s tons of Magenta Paintbrush, Lupine, Phlox, Penstemon, and other blooms I didn’t recognize.
Wildlife sightings included chipmunks, marmots, and—excitingly—an absolutely stunning fox! That was a first for me. It was near the restrooms, collared and didn’t seem too afraid of people, but everyone was being respectful and keeping a good distance. Birds (heard not seen) - Pine Siskin and Pacific Wren. The family coming back from Berkeley Camp told me they’d encountered a mama bear with cubs near camp. They said they backed away slowly, and she wasn’t aggressive.
On the downside, there was no toilet paper in the restrooms when I got back around 7 pm. Also, mosquitoes on the way back—especially along Sourdough Ridge—were awful. Even drenched in Off, they managed to bite me through my clothes and socks, including on my face, ears, and the back of my neck.
The trail is already pretty dry and dusty, so be prepared to end up covered in sunscreen, bug spray, and dust.
If you’re hoping to see the wildflowers, get out there soon before they fade!
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