Crystal Lake — Friday, Jun. 28, 2013

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

Once again I found myself at a loss for a hike when my aunt sent me a text wondering what trail the family should take. I sent back names of hikes I had read about and we decided on Meadow Mountain. After finding out the trail was 17.5 miles one way we decided to switch to Crystal Lake. The trail started out as a long road walk through overgrown alder trees and brush eventually changing to an even more overgrown road walk. Tantalizing views of Pugh and old growth trees made the long slog worthwhile as we hiked along. Around 3500 feet the trail became a muddy, mucky, mix of downed trees, brush, and snow but passing the first patches of snow we found the old fire line described by Ira Spring. A steep direct route to the lake only indicated by flagging (highly helpful until its abrupt disappearance) gained elevation quickly alongside waterfalls and a roaring creek. At the crest of the hill around 4500 feet we found a large amount of snow, but with some modest route finding we made it to the outlet of the lake and an excellent campsite, strangely bare among the snow and frozen lake. It was a great spot for lunch and reflection. It was also an awesome spot to view amphibians as local frogs were abundant among ponds of meltwater. Wildlife included garter snakes, several types of frogs, and grouse. The payoff of the hike was beautiful but for the long approach I would advise bringing a mountain bike along. The roads are in great shape at the trailhead and beg for a bicycle approach. Meadow mountain also looked pleasant from what we could see but the snow line was lower than expected. If solitude is the goal this trail fit the bill as the trail is largely overgrown and isolated. We were the only vehicle at the trailhead and asides from a woman and her dogs we did not see anyone hiking.