Josephine Lake (Skagit) — Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011

Puget Sound and Islands > Bellingham Area

A beautiful sunny day called us out to the local hills. We have discovered the DNR lands near Hamilton and decided to go to Josephine Lake, just below Mt. Josephine. You will find it cited in many fishing guides for the Cascades [as well of a lot of other unknown lakes that you can hike to]. We parked near the lower trail head and decided to hike the road to the upper trail head because of the gorgeous views of the Skagit Valley. From the TH it was a quick hike into the lake. Given the amount of rain this week, the trail was in very good shape -- some muddy spots but pretty stable and not slippery. The lake still had a layer of ice on it and was magnificent in the sun light. One of our New Year resolutions was to travel the "Trails less hiked", and getting a nice collection of them. If the usage fees go through then I suspect we will be frequenting these trails. A map of the 50+ miles of trail (and logging roads) is at: http://www.mikereidconstruction.com/Washington%20Horse%20Trails/Washington%20Horse%20Park%20Maps/Les%20Hilde%20Trailhead.html