Hiked to Rachel lake and additional mile or so to Rampart Lakes.
Highlights:
- Lakes were beautiful!
- stunning view from Rachel to Rampart
- bugs were insane and only got worse the higher you go
- trail can become unclear (download map ahead of time!)
- A few people with dogs but I'm glad I kept mine at home-- a lot of times you will need full balance as you do some light climbing and thoughtful foot placement (would be too much for my pup)
We arrived at the trailhead later than we wanted at around 10am on a Sunday. Lot was very full but we managed to squeeze into a spot. Restroom available at trailhead but no TP-- make sure you bring your own! Encountered a few people on the way up but most were already on their way down.
To Rachel Lake: Moderately steep incline. About halfway to Rachel we encountered a steep but short rock wall that did take all hands and feet to get up to continue the trail. Hike boots with ankle protection would be good! Passed by pretty creeks and small waterfalls on the way. Rachel Lake was a beauty and while the plunge into the water was icy cold, it was a good reset/refresher to continue our push up to Rampart. Bugs were getting pretty bad here..
Continuing to Rampart: Steeper incline up to Rampart Ridge with a stunning view of Rachel Lake down below. The ridge was a nice "gift" after the push upward. The ridge was a lengthy and flat stroll through beautiful greenery and wildflowers but don't stand still too long.. the bugs were hungry up there. Lots of bug spray and even a head net couldn't keep them at bay for too long.
Be sure to download an offline map of the trail.. at times it became tricky discerning the trails from natural, dried out river beds.
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