Gothic Basin — Wednesday, Oct. 14, 1998

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

I'm somewhat addicted to this hike, so invited afriend to go explore some mines in the area. We gotlucky and found one, but the bushwack to get thereis only for the true mine afficiando! The newly-built trail for the first half is holdingup ok to the rains (did I mention it rained all day'). Someis going to wash away, but most sections look ok.Once past 3700', the old trail takes over, and itis under either 2"" of snow or 2"" of water. Snow starts in earnest at 4000' el. Naturally,we got totally soaked. I think my boots weigh 45 lbs eachPerhaps it's time to waterproof again'