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Trip Report

Josephine Lake, Big Chief Mountain — Thursday, Sep. 11, 2025

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
My sittin' spot at Lake Susan Jane

This was to be a hike to the summit of Big Chief.  However, when I got to the upper chairlift terminals above Stevens Pass, fog was pouring in over Big Chief and Cowboy Passes. Not wanting to deal with blowing fog, I made it a hike to Lake Susan Jane instead.  Alas, looking back at Big Chief from across the valley, it was beautiful and sunny up there.  No matter.  It's a lovely hike to Susan Jane.  It's a small lake, with about four heavily used campsites.  There is also a very pleasant box toilet (as toilets go).

Be advised, the climb back to the upper ski terminals, though not long or steep, is exposed and can be very hot.  That was not a problem today.  

In many areas, including this one, this has been a phenomenal year for blueberries.  Time is running out, though.  They are already starting to get soft and squishy.

7 miles round trip, though it feels like more.  Maybe it's the climb up then down, then up then down again on the return.

Big Chief Mountain, summit on right
Fog pouring over Cowboy Pass
Same, from the ski terminals
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