Mount Margaret, Whittier Ridge-Lakes Loop, Boundary Trail & Norway Pass — Wednesday, Sep. 14, 2022

Wow, if you’re looking to have your mind blown in nature look no further! Such a beautiful and unique area. 

We started our two night trip at Bear Camp, starting from Norway Pass. At camp heavy fog was rolling in and out but we were able to enjoy plenty of wildlife off a small trail south of camp. While there are some small pools of water near camp it tastes pretty swampy and I am not sure how much longer it will be there.

The next morning we awoke to heavy fog and some rain. After breakfast, we left camp set up and checked out Mount Margaret. Such a beautiful side trip - highly recommend. Still beautiful in the fog, and we saw what was either elk or very large deer along with lots of goats.

With conditions clearing up a bit, we decided to pack up and tackle Whittier Ridge (clockwise). After reading that a “69 year old fit dad” could knock this out, we decided we should be up for the challenge as well. While Helens and the other major mountains were obscured by clouds the views were still nonstop. The trail is a little tricky, you may need to double back a few times if you get side-tracked following goat trails. It is slippery and we definitely felt a little worn out with each passing peak. Overall the ridge took about 3 hours, with a small break or two. We were glad it was over with, but very happy with our decision to take this route with the outstanding views and access to the other lakes.

From here we continued on to Obscurity Camp. Once again, nonstop views along the way. Plenty of water at each lake and right along the trail near Panhandle. I don’t have much to say about Obscurity, except it’s a fine place as any to rest your head after a long day. Panhandle is a much more ideal place to stay as you are much closer to the lake and do not have to descend much.

The last day we headed back out, completing the loop and heading back to Norway Pass.

Currently tons of delicious berries along the trail and the fall colors are outstanding! Lots of goats. Bathrooms at each camp. We encountered only a handful of other hikers along the way.

#FirstTripReport