Goat Lake — Saturday, Jul. 19, 2025

Had to now avoided Goat Lake because of the reputation for crowds, and it was indeed crowded but gave it a try and must say I can see why such a lovely lake (and hike to and from it) would draw a crowd.

Got to the trailhead 7ish on Saturday to an already crowded lot—presumably all campers since I was the first to sign the log with the current date—but managed to get a spot (was glad I had when I saw how far down the road cars were parked when I departed the next day). Took the lower trail up, everything in good condition with only a few minor falls mostly past where the trails join, nothing too difficult BUT NOTE—about halfway to the lake along the section after the trails join, if the trail suddenly seems to take a turn for the worse, with super muddy trail bed and a bunch of downed trees back to back, take a few steps back and look for a trail going uphill; there's a pretty deceptive false trail and while it joins up with the real thing you'll have worked a lot harder than you had to and will feel silly when you join up with the actual trail.

Lake is lovely, and after setting up camp took a walk most of the way to the south end. Past the camp and day-use beach sites the trail becomes more and more abstract, but it hugs the shore closely enough that it was easy enough to keep bearings. Worth it for the views though I'd definitely recommend long sleeves and pants and an extra thorough tick check, as you're squeezing between dense brush overgrowing the trail much of the way.

Camping area was crowded to be sure, but that was to be expected and on the whole everyone was considerate and neighborly.

Hiked back on the upper trail, and while I could see taking the lower both ways on a hotter weekend or if I were hiking later in the day just for the shade I'm glad I did the full loop, as both sides are gorgeous in their own ways, and I'd recommend doing both if weather allows. On top of some nice vistas across the valley the upper trail also boasts the berries—lots of red huckleberry with a few fruit ripe now and a bunch that will be soon, and all the thimbleberry you could want (which for me is never more than one or two but if they're your thing have at it).