Hidden Lake Lookout — Friday, Aug. 29, 2025

Wowsers! This hike certainly delivers. Flowers are on their way out, but some paintbrush and asters are still vibrant with color. Blueberries once you get above the switchbacks are in various stages of not-yet-ripe to very delicious.
No obstacles on the trail except a few downed trees, easy to cross. No snow on trail. Also, NO WATER on trail or near trail unless you go down to Hidden Lake.
The trail up to the lookout is tricky to find, but it's there and requires very little bouldering. Absolutely gorgeous trail and views. The lookout has some sleeping bags, games, and binoculars. (staying in the Lookout is 1st come).
No wildlife except a few pikas. Several places along the trail to set a tent. Most places were in use already as we descended between 2-4 pm today. we took our sweet time, taking way too many pictures, saying "oh my god!" and "holy __ __" so many times. We spent nearly 3 hours at the top. Definitely an easy hike to turn into a full day of gawking.

Let's talk road... yikers! I would say you want a min of 9inches clearance with the ability to turn traction control off. I have 9.3inches and did not bottom out, but I also navigate roads like this often (brushes shoulder off). I would have felt more confident with more clearance and 4 wheel drive vs all wheel. Potholes are deep and plentiful, some washboards, and the pullout are few and far between. I'll include a picture of the road, but the picture doesn't look as daunting as the road actually is.