East Fork Foss - Necklace Valley — Sunday, Jul. 2, 2006

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West

We got a late start on Saturday morning, but hey - it's a four-day weekend and just pass the Solstice, so what's the rush? The ranger at the Skykomish station told us that there were ""lots"" of people in the Valley and wished us ""good luck."" If only her definition of ""lots"" were true all season - there were about 6 other cars parked at the trailhead - and we passed two parties on their way out. A bunch more came in through the weekend, but it was relatively quiet. The first 5 miles of the trail were as advertised - fairly flat and easy. That part of the trail was in very good shape - only overgrown in a few small parts, but for the most part freshly trimmed and clear. There are really not many campsites on the first five-mile section along the river - two good ones (miles 4 and 5) and a few questionable ones. The final 2.5 miles were as advertised - steep, rooty, and rocky. There were no blow-downs, but there was a lot of water on the trail (and some snow higher up at the lakes). I'm not sure that gaiters are necessary, but a fresh coat of waterproofing on the boots would be advised. The first lake (Jade) was mostly clear, however, there was only one good campsite that was usable (right at the North end of the lake). The other ones were wet and muddy. The trail on east side of the lake is partially submerged, but the best option. Taking off your boots for a 20 foot section is much preferable to picking your way through the boulder field on the west side (trust me - we tried both). The second lake (Emerald) has spots of snow (on the trail and elsewhere), but nothing that makes it impassable or unusable. There were several campsites over there that were clear. Didn't make it to Opal or other lakes, but my guess is that they will be mostly clear in a week or so. The bugs were pretty bad on the lower section of trail, but not bad at all (yet) at the lakes. Hiking the last three miles back to the car were rough – 80 degrees, humid, and buggy – DEET was of no use, since we had streams of sweat dripping off of us. No bear activity that we noticed, but the ranger said there was some pilfering of food a few weeks ago. Overall, a nice trip – it was hard work, but enjoyable. We thought the stands of old growth (miles 4 – 6) were more exceptional than the lakes, but we prefer the higher alpine variety, so make your own judgment!