We arrived at the trailhead about 8:30 a.m. and the upper lot was full and the lower lot nearly full. But we had the trail to ourselves for the first hour or so. Then hikers started coming down and speedier hikers began to pass us.
The trail is in excellent condition. The only issue is that the hiking guide mentions a sign marked “Trail” at Rachel Lake to mark the trail to Rampart Ridge. The signpost is still there (to the left of the toilet sign), but there is no longer a sign that says "Trail" (see picture).
The weather was perfect and the lakes were very blue. There were many tents at Rachel Lake. On the way down from Rampart Lakes, we passed many backpackers and day hikers going up. The parking lots were full when we arrived around 3:30 p.m. and cars were parked along the road. I don’t know if all those backpackers will find a spot to pitch a tent.
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