East Fork Foss - Necklace Valley — Saturday, Jun. 29, 2013

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West

Started Saturday morning at 10am. 5 cars in the parking area with 2 other couples gearing up (1 pair day hiking and the second with overnight packs and a dog). Trail map, signage, current trip report, and box for permits were in good order. About 10 water crossings in the first 5 miles. All shallow enough to keep feet dry. The big log crossing the river at mile 1 was in good condition. River flowing very fast here. Looked to be a campsite just after this crossing - which was intentionally blocked by cut limbs but still usable. Generally flat hiking the rest of the way to the 5 mile mark. You can hear the river in some spots, not may spots to see or feel the cold river air. The bend in the trail at the 5 mile mark has a few large open areas for tents, nearly on the trail. 2 easy access points to the river make this spot nice. There is also a stone fire ring here. The mosquitoes and flies are starting to get bad. With good bug spray we were not bothered much but they are there. The bridge just after the camping area is okay. The water is nearly at it's bottom, honestly surprised it is still functional. We had to take 3 steps from the trail to the log in deep water (see picture). There is a back way around - but it was tougher and I got my feet wet this way too. There is another campsite just after this bridge. Small and right on the trail - but an option if the bigger area is taken up. Then the climb begins... Steep for sure. Exposed in some areas. It was tough for me with the 85-90 degree heat. No water first 1.5 miles, but more frequent after that. Little snow the last scramble to the lake, manageable with shoes/boots only although microspikes are helpful. Jade Lake is almost completely clear. Very little ice remains. The 1 campsite at the lake was used by 2 groups (happy we camped at the bottom). Overall a good weekend hike. Not overly crowded but definitely others out there with us. 'grueling climb' the 3 miles from the river crossing to the lake is no joke.