Bagley Lakes — Monday, Nov. 13, 2000

North Cascades > Mount Baker Area

Hike begins from upper parking lot of Mt Baker Ski Area. A quick descent into the Bagley Creek ravine, and the world was transformed. Pools and slow moving water - all frozen, but not yet snow covered. Shining glass surfaces, some so thin black and silver water could be seen below. A first year American Dipper fed on a tilted shelf of fast flowing water. Gently ascending beside steepening andosite columns, miniature frozen waterfalls clung to the rock at eye level. At Upper Bagley Lake - a world of white. The lake frozen and smooth as polished stone. Silence. Upon departure a Northern Pygmy Owl appeared and checked me out with much curiosity. Only the second I have ever seen!! Trail conditions: snow covered, but easy travel, with care.