Great hike today up Vesper Peak! Perfect weather. We arrived at the trailhead around 8:50am with cars lined down the road. It was a busy day to attempt the climb. The road up to that point was easily navigated but there was a spot or two where I was grateful we had a car with high clearance.
We started the trail around 9:05 and got to enjoy intermittent creek crossings and a beautiful morning in the wooded area near the begining. Hit the eleveation gain after an easy creek crossing and soon after our first more exposed stretch. Huckleberries began around this point and the views as well. Such beautiful glimpses of the mountains from the get go. Lots of uphill, alternating between shade and sun. Overall we were grateful to begin early. Many water sources along the trail.
Eventually we exchanged the brushy and exposed areas in exchange for a rocky and exposed area that led us to the many small switchbacks up to the pass. Lost of trail erosion here and lots of gain. First glimpse of Glacier Peak as we ascended! Hit the lake soon past the other side of the pass, amazing valley views and craggy mountain tops laced in clouds.
Last part of the climb was a choose-your-own-adventure style scramble with vibrant patches of lupine and heather at the starting line. Tough climb in the sun with the glare off the rocks but worth it to hit the summit and see the view. Very busy but still space to find a place to sit and enjoy. We hit the summit around noon.
Started our descent around 12:40 and stopped near the lake to filter water. Trickiest part of the descent was definitely coming down from the pass through the loose gravelly rock and the exposed stretch that leads away from it. After that, the way down was smooth and fast. We finished around 4:15.
Great day! Next time might prioritize going on a weekday to experience it less busy but still a lovely day on the mountain.
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