Chain Lakes Loop — Sunday, Aug. 3, 2025

Got to the trailhead around 9am, artist point parking lot about 1/4 full. Bathrooms pretty gross as expected from a heavily used area. Headed out on the loop counter clockwise from artist point. Trail down to Heather meadow was steep as usual, hiking poles definitely helped. We did the detour around the lake to warm up for the switchbacks, definitely worth it. Mosquitos were a bit bad but nothing bug-spray couldn’t handle. Sun came out during the trail up to the saddle. There is no shade so bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Flies were a pain going up. Some snow at the saddle to cool off in, dogs especially loved it. The trail down to the lakes was like a whole different hike. Lots of mist, cool breeze. Welcome relief. Tons of people around the lake but it was still gorgeous. Hike back up was much easier than the hike to the saddle, and the last stretch was pretty much flat. About 1800 ft elevation gain, 8.6 miles total.