Great trail, and though this time I didn't make it to the upper lake, will definitely do again, and head further up! Toilets at the trailhead are up and running, but the one at the Lower Lena Lake campground is out, so be prepared. I didn't really run into any bugs until I got back to the trailhead this morning, where the mosquitoes decided I looked delicious! The wildlife was amazing. Had woodpeckers hanging out in camp, butterflies trying to get my Red Vines (and get cranky when they couldn't land on the package!), tons of other birds, and the two cutest ducklings EVER. I wish I had taken pictures to include, the views are spectacular. I was surprised at how many cars were in the lot when I got there at noon on a Wednesday, but everyone was amazing, and only a couple other groups stayed the night.
Be aware, because this is such a gentle trail, definitely more families camping, which can make it a bit noisier.
Alright, now on to the "Very specific to me" hike report, where I tell some people how awesome they are....
To the group that played leap frog with the tattooed solo hiker chick all the way up: You guys seriously made my hike. My career is generally thankless, and I have to look evil in the eye on a weekly basis. It makes it nearly impossible to remember there is any good in the world. I hike solo, like I told you, because I do get to meet more people that way. But what I didn't say was that hiking like that is the only way I can remember that there is good in the world. It's a giant reset for my life, meeting people on the trail, and your group was the best. I have no idea how we'd get along outside of the trail, but I want you all (and I guess others?) to know that hiking with you guys made it so I could go home and be okay. The pure joy you all exuded the entire time was a balm for this weary soul, and I thank you. I'm actually pretty sad I didn't get to come hang out at your camp for a bit (super sleepy, with working nights and all!), and I'm even more bummed that I didn't get to say goodbye to you guys. Again, I think I was taking a much-needed nap. I doubt we'll run into each other again since my days off are changing, but I really hope we do. Thank you for reminding me to stop and check out all the cool little things on the trail, and that there is good in the world. Not sure if any of you will actually see this, but now the world knows that there are some truly amazing peeps out on the trails!
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