Double Eagle Mine - Devils Lake — Friday, Dec. 2, 2011

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

Beautiful day for a hike! This was my first time on this trail. I was told it is usually overgrown and very tough when there is no snow. The snow however made this trip much easier with exception of post holing a bunch. I could not find the mine but the snow and the scenery of Big Four, Morning star and the other peaks across the valley were stunning. The snow off Deer Creek road was minimal unless you head up towards Kelcema lake. No snow near the overgrown road to Devils Lake. Be careful at the TH, it looks as if people like to practice their shooting skills. Remnants of broken targets and shells all around this area. This day however there was nobody else around. Lots of downed trees and ditches to be careful of. You can sink in the snow and get stuck on the branches..which I did. Lot's of animal tracks in the snow. I think mostly rabbits. About .5 miles in the snow starts getting deep. This is a great hike for a snowshoe adventure.