Lake Janus and Grizzly Peak — Sunday, Nov. 8, 2015

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East

Started at Smithbrook Trailhead and the trail was snowy but visible. Left TH at 1230 and the trail was nicely defined by previous hikers. The trail was in good condition, but the mixture of ice and mud did make it slippery in spots. More pronounced on return when I was descending back to TH. Was probably 12 inches deep at lake. My intent was to go to Valhalla. Smithbrook comes to PCT at about the one mile point. My guidebook said to turn south. There were no markings at the trail for N or S so I went with my internal compass. That is how I ended up at Lake Janus! At PCT, turning right leads North to Janus and Left goes South to Valhalla. I did look at my actual compass after a mile or so, saw I was heading to Lake Janus and was fine with hike and experience on trail. It was very serene and I was only one up there at the time. Back to parking lot by 430 and second to last car out. Assume other group went South on PCT because I saw no one else on trail. Beautiful hike and the grade is pretty mild, so I think it would be a great spot to overnight with kids. Assume lake will be frozen soon.