Lake Serene — Friday, Dec. 28, 2001

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West

Brad, Steve and I decided to snowshoe up to Lake Serene, however it turned out the snow was packed down enough that they were not required (this is probably fortunate as I think it would make a tough snowshoe). We ran into a little bit of snow and ice even at the beginning of the trail but it didn't deepen too much until we were into the stair section, still, there was little if any postholing. The weather was fairly mild, which made for nice hiking, but as we approached the lake a chilly wind was blowing out of the lake basin. It was nice to have hat, gloves, and a jacket to put on at this point. We found a sheltered spot and Steve got out his stove. Hot chocolate is always a great plus when you've reached your destination on a winter's day. As we left the lake we witnessed a beautiful sunset reflecting off the peaks to the northeast. Going back was alot easier and I was positive there were much fewer steps going down even though it was the same trail, however I wasn't counting so I couldn't be sure...