Rachel Lake, Alta Mountain — Monday, Jun. 25, 2007

Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass

This was a trip up to Alta Peak. More erosion is evident on the old Rachel Lake Trail #1313. About 8 blowdowns across the trail, each one requiring a bit more effort to cross, but easy jumps. This time of year water comes down the trail washing the roots and rocks and forming shallow mud holes. But the trail is more beautiful than I remember. Snow patches just before you get to the lake which always seems to have a good breeze to keep the bugs away. The trail up to the saddle with Rampart Ridge also has hard snow patches. I was glad I had my ice axe handy. The ridge walk was spectacular with good views all around, especially of Mt Thompson across the valley. Again, some hard snow in spots. Good wild life now… frogs, snakes, voles, deer and bear (droppings only).