We got to the trailhead late in the afternoon. Parking was full with cars lining the road, but luckily we found a spot closer to the trailhead.
We headed out pretty quick and burned ourselves out after a couple of switchbacks. Definitely take your time as the majority of the elevation gain is at the beginning. We are novice backpackers and this one definitely humbled us.
We did make it to lower Lena Lake with plenty of daylight left. Most of the campsites were full, so we continued around the backside of the lake and found a flat spot on the riverbed. I don't think it was an official campsite, but other backpackers were camped along the creek where there was room, so we put up our tent, mindful to not disturb the spot as much as possible. The sound of the river/creek downed out all the other campers and we felt like we were on our own little island.
The hike down the next morning was definitely worth the hike up. Stopping at the bolder field felt like the halfway mark. It is a good spot to take a break and get a snack in.
The lake is cold, but definitely refreshing. Plenty of space for everyone to swim. The best view is from Lunch Rock just as you turn in to the campsites.
I would put this at the high end of moderate, but again, we are novice backpackers.
Comments