My legs are still sore 2 days later! The length of the trail on WTA is incorrect - a marker at the trail head stated that the lake was 4 miles, and it sure felt like 4 miles; so I'd plan to do 8 miles round trip, not 7.5 miles.
The first mile is a very gentle incline and the last mile is either level or downhill. The two miles in the middle are where you gain that 1800 feet in elevation. We're in decent shape, but this trail totally kicked our butts; we both worked up very good sweats. It's not an easy 4 miles, but it IS totally worth it! The lake is gorgeous and the water felt fantastic after that hike and having sat in the heat for a few minutes trying to "cool down." I would absolutely recommend bringing a suit to go swimming if you're hiking this in the summer. It is take-your-breath-away-cold, but that only lasts for a couple of seconds, and then it just feels good. We saw a couple of people swimming around the lake, plenty of dogs running in and out for sticks. We saw a few campers - this place would be absolutely beautiful to camp.
Right before you hit the lake, there is a toilet up to your left - very private and it really wasn't that bad/gross. It was nice to have that. We got to the parking lot about 9am on a Saturday and we somehow lucked out and got a spot in the lot - several cars had already had to start parking on the road side just before the lot.
Because this trail gives you a good workout, my advice is to treat yourself afterward - stop in North Bend at get a cookie at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Perfect after-hike snack/reward!
Comments