Lake Janus and Grizzly Peak — Friday, Nov. 9, 2012

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East

Did the hike to Janus Lake (not all the way to Grizzly). Looks pretty wintery up there - probably 1 to 2 inches of snow on the ground, temperatures in the mid-20s. The road from US2 to he trailhead wasn't a problem at all in a 4-wheel drive. We did the hike in snow boots, without any extra form of traction. There are still enough spots with bare rock, dirt, or streams of water on the trail that crampons or snowshoes wouldn't work too well. There were a few slippery patches of ice, and a couple stream crossings, but with trekking poles we did fine. Besides some running water, the trail was in good shape. Not too much of a climb, but definitely more work in winter gear than it would be in the summer. Saw a bird that really wanted our Clif bars and was not happy when we didn't share. Also a few deer, rabbit and maybe fox tracks on the PCT, but no other live wildlife. Overall, not the most spectacular scenery, but a nice length and degree of difficulty for getting used to winter outings. Should be a nice showshoe outing in a few weeks if the road remains passable.