Gem Lake — Saturday, Jul. 26, 2025

 Parking & Trail Notes – Alpental (Hiked Saturday, July 26) The Alpental parking lot was nearly full by 9:00 AM. Overflow parking is available, but please note that a NW Forest Pass is required (a kiosk is onsite for purchasing). Officials are actively checking for passes on dashboards. In most cases, they’ll log your license plate for a first-time infraction and issue a warning. Facilities are available on-site, but expect a line—especially on weekends. As usual for a Saturday, the trail was very crowded. I've mentioned this before, but it's worth repeating: I saw many hikers using DEET-based bug repellents. Please be mindful—DEET is harmful to both you and the alpine lakes, particularly if you're planning to jump in to cool off. A safer and eco-friendly alternative is pure vanilla extract mixed with water (equal parts). It works surprisingly well, smells pleasant, and won’t contaminate the water or harm your lungs. If you continue on to Gem Lake, the crowd thins out significantly—traffic drops by nearly 80%. The trail becomes noticeably quieter, allowing for a more peaceful experience. It’s incredibly scenic, with frequent, easy-access points to Snow Lake along the way. The trail is well-marked but not without challenge—while manageable, reaching Gem Lake is a well-earned reward that’s absolutely worth the effort. In my opinion, Gem Lake is even more scenic than Snow Lake, making the extra effort completely worthwhile. Both lakes are cold—but not too cold—if you're planning to jump in for a refreshing dip! Cheers, and happy hiking!