Lucky enough to score permits for the Copper Ridge loop hike! We originally planned four nights out to include a side-trip to Tapto Lakes. However the smoke changed our well laid plans and we opted to hike out on the third day due to lack of views and uncertainty if the smoke would blow away.
Bugs were absolutely horrendous getting up and over Hannegan Pass. Clouds of biting flies. On the east side of the pass they were merely annoying. One minor snow crossing in Hell's Gorge but no need for ice axe or spikes. There are also small snowfields beyond Silesia Camp but we had no difficulties crossing any of these. Bugs were annoying when the wind would stop but manageable.
Walked the length of the ridge, had a nice and cold swim in Copper Lake, and then made the very long but gradual descent to the Chilliwack River. We forded a short but swift knee-deep section, then realized the main event was yet to come. Don't take your sandals off just yet! After crossing another short swift but easy section we reached the main river. It's very still, almost no current, though about mid-thigh deep and pretty cold. Easy to cross. Also look for salmon in the river!
Trail to Indian Creek camp is quite overgrown but largely free of blowdown. From there it alternates between brushy and clear until reaching the next trail junction. A bit rough in places with a few minor blowdowns but nothing very difficult. From there it's an easy though long walk back up to Hannegan Pass, with a fun cable-car ride along the way.
Type of Hike
Multi-night backpackTrail Conditions
Minor obstacles posing few problemsRoad
Road suitable for all vehiclesBugs
Bugs were terribleSnow
Intermittent snow - not hard to cross
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