Ptarmigan Ridge, Chain Lakes Loop — Saturday, Sep. 8, 2012

North Cascades > Mount Baker Area

Finally able to cross this hike off my to-do list! My first Saturday off all summer, couldn't have asked for nicer weather. The first mile or so was PACKED all the way to the pass. Once I got on the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail, the crowds started to diminish. Compared to others I've done in the past, I thought this was a pretty easy hike. Not much elevation gain either. With the warm temperatures and nice cool breeze, it was a pleasant trip. Amazing views all around every step of the way. Ice axes are not required for snow crossings. Poles might be helpful, but I still managed to make it to Camp Kiser without any in tennis shoes. Took a detour to find a geocache .5 miles from the main trail and discovered a nice set of lakes that had an icy blue color. Beautiful. Also saw a few herds of mountain goats in the distance. You can see more photos on my blog here: http://salvarado24.wordpress.com/. Thanks for reading!