Smithbrook, Lake Valhalla & Lake Janus and Grizzly Peak — Sunday, Jun. 25, 2023

The Smithbrook trail is in great condition. There are no major travel difficulties associated with reaching the Pacific Crest Trail junction. All logs present on the main trail were cleared by volunteer or Forest Service personnel. There are some small patches of mud on trail from seeps and lingering patches of snow melting higher up that do not impact travel.

The Pacific Crest trail south to Lake Valhalla is also in good condition. Small patches of snow are found on the trail near the saddle of Lichtenberg Mountain and Mount McCausland. These snow patches are passable, however be aware of snow bridge hazards. At Lake Valhalla is there one large log just past the first bathroom that must be hopped over to reach the beach.

The Pacific Crest trail north from the Smithbrook junction to Lake Janus is also in very good condition. However, there are a handful of logs down on the trail. Each is easily passable. There are a small number of rocky and rutted sections of the trail due to heavy use and runoff. Be mindful of footing while traveling. Once at Lake Janus, mud is prevalent on the day use trails that surround the lake. One should be mindful of footing as well.

Bugs are abundant and prevalent from the Smithbrook trail all the way to Lake Valhalla & Lake Janus. Bug spray is highly advised and/or a head bug net. Not biting insects like mayflys can be seen at Lake Janus. At Lake Valhalla is there one large log just past the first bathroom that must be hopped over to reach the beach. Lake Valhalla is clear and cold. Lake Janus is muddy on the shores, however clear and quite warm.