We took 4 days to make the leisurely hike around the Goat Lake loop. We started at the Berry Patch trailhead and hiked clockwise. Road conditions were fine and no problems at all. I was surprised how many people were out being it was after labor day and in the middle of the week. We did see about 15 goats near Goat Lake that mostly stayed high up on the ridge but did come down to the water one night. The smoke from WA fires was really bad two of the days. Imagine looking out toward Mt. Adams as in the photo that goes with this report and NOT being able to see the mountain. It got that bad at times. It did clear up on Friday.
My one suggestion for both day hikers and backpackers is that if you choose to do the loop clockwise, please be aware that there is no water source between Jordan Basin camp and the Berry Patch trailhead. The other side of the loop (Snowgrass side) has plenty of water sources but not the west side of the loop... plan accordingly.
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