Chain Lakes Loop — Friday, Aug. 8, 2025

TLDR: Counterclockwise overnight on the Chain Lakes Loop leaving from Lake Ann TH — moody clouds Friday, bluebird skies Saturday. Camped at Hayes Lake, wildflowers in bloom, pikas in the rocks, and endless “wow” views. Quiet Friday evening, Disney-level crowds on Saturday.


Started from Lake Ann Trailhead Friday at 5:30 p.m., hiked counterclockwise via the Wild Goose Trail to Austin Pass, then took the Bagley Lakes Trail to connect with Chain Lakes Trail. Camped at Hayes Lake overnight, hiked out Saturday via Chain Lakes Trail to Artist Point and then Wild Goose Trail back to Lake Ann TH.

From Austin Pass to Mazama Lake there were a few muddy sections from seasonal cascades/streams, but “stream” crossings were mostly puddle jumps. Between Mazama Lake and Lake Ann TH, the trail is rocky with stretches over scree and boulder fields, creating loose trail edges. In narrow spots, passing others with a backpack can be tricky, and one hiker ahead of me lost footing at the edge (caught himself fine). Only a few lingering snow patches (10–20 ft of trail coverage each), easy to cross.

Trail signs were generally clear, except for the Chain Lakes/Hayes Lake campsite junction — the directional sign has fallen, and the campsite path isn’t super obvious. Look for the backcountry toilet sign; the campsite trail is almost directly across from it. There are plenty of streams and access to the lakes to filter water if you need - I hiked in with 2 liters and just filtered as I needed more.

Parking at Lake Ann TH was easy Friday evening (got the last spot). Saturday was a different story: Artist Point and Austin Pass were packed, with cars circling and roadside parking full. Make sure to display your pass/get a day pass!! They were pretty diligent on Saturday with putting "forgetting something?" flyers on all the cars without a pass displayed...i forgot to put mine out when I parked for a quick bathroom stop and got the friendly reminder.

This loop is jaw-droppingly beautiful in any weather — Friday’s overcast was the perfect level of moody with peeks of Mt Baker and Mt Shuskan, while Saturday’s bluebird skies allowed views for miles. The glaciers were popping! Wildflowers are in full bloom, snowmelt is creating countless little cascades, and the pikas were out and about in the boulder fields. Hayes & Mazama Lake campsites have a shared backcountry toilet (#luxury). Since it’s not super far off the main trail, it’s great to have a buddy for this toilet, so one of you can keep an eye out and prevent others from “walking” in. No big wildlife sightings; used a bear vault as required, and brought bear spray, but luckily never needed it.

Friday evening was quiet, though campsites at Hayes Lake filled up. Saturday from Mazama Lake to Artist Point and beyond was Disneyland busy. Most hikers were courteous, but patience is key when you’re grinding uphill and need to yield to downhill traffic (I’m only human, and was a tired, hot one at that 😅)

This was my first overnight backpacking trip — not an “easy stroll” with a full pack, but low mileage makes it a great intro as long as you’re ready to work for those views. I’d happily hike this again, either as a day loop or a multi-night trip combining Hayes and Mazama lakes with Ptarmigan Ridge.

Tips for Future Hikers and Backpackers:

Bring bug spray and/or a head net — mosquitoes were annoying in the evening and morning.

Layer up — I was grateful for thermals and a beanie after sunset.

The loop is mostly exposed; bring sun protection and plenty of water for hot days.

Be ready for steep grinds over Herman’s Saddle and out of Mazama Lake toward Artist Point.