Lake Valhalla Snowshoe, Lake Janus and Grizzly Peak — Saturday, Sep. 11, 2010

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East

The morning started out overcast but the sun began to make it's appearance early afternoon - of course on my way back to the trailhead. Entered through Smith Brook road trailhead hiking to Lake Valhalla first and spent about 30 minutes at the "beach". Lichtenberg Mt. should be ablaze in color in about three weeks. The fall colors are just starting to change especially on the east side of Stevens Pass. I was quite surprised at the lack of huckleberries on the bushes-not even green ones. Went back to Union Gap and then headed over to Lake Janus. Several groups were camping at the lake. Once again there were no huckleberries, green or otherwise, and last year they were abundant. Hmmm...maybe our unusual summer weather has something to do with this. Had thought about going back to Grizzly Peak however the cloud coverage was still heavy and low so put it off for another day. Both trails were in good shape - muddy in places which is expected with all the wet weather we've had lately. Another great day the mountains.