We did a great day hike under the fall sun. My hope was to finally see the larches in golden yellow, after 19 years of procrastination.
We started early and arrived at trail head around 8:30am. Road leading to the trailhead was in good condition, although we saw smoke coming out from the forest right next to the road. The parking lot was getting full around the time we arrived. Plenty of people ended up parking on the road side throughout the day.
The trail was mostly covered with snow, from thin layer to 6 inches deep. With microspikes, we had little problem navigating it. After half way, we got into the valley and saw the larches in their best golden yellow color. The blue sky and mountains provided the best backdrop. The yellow larches gave us the best fall color in PNW. We stopped frequently to take photos.
Navigating in the valley was a bit rocky, but not super difficult. As we got closer to the lake, we needed to hike over some steep rocky path. A bit of patience and microspikes helped us reaching the lake around noon.
The lake rested in the circle of multiple mountains, all of which are half covered by snow. There were plenty of people taking rest and having lunch next to the lake. It got very cold and a bit windy. We had to put on our down jackets to keep warm.
The return was much easier as snow melted out in many part of the trail. However we kept our microspikes on most of the way. Mountain goats finally showed up as we hiked down. I guess they did not like the cold morning either.
I am happy to finally see the larches in the glory yellow under bright sun. The early snow just made them look so much better.
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