East Fork Foss - Necklace Valley — Friday, Jul. 6, 2007

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West

Did on overnight at Emerald Lake. I visited Jade, Al, and Locket Lakes. All are snow-free, except a few remaining patches. Keep your eyes out for the grassy marsh landscape, maybe 100 yards or so to the right a few miles from the trailhead. I didn't notice it coming in; but was amazed to see this landscape so different from the forest I was hiking in. It almost looked like a rice paddy at first glance. Despite what the sign says, no fording is needed. The bridge across the river at five miles is a fallen tree with handrails about a 1/4 mile upstream from where the trail meets the river. Don't trust the handrails on the other bridge further up the trail; one post if very loose. The trail is cleared the first five miles. But, there are a few big trees to clamber over or under during the 3-mile climb to the valley. Be prepared for gnats and a few mosquitos. Saw lots of frogs, a couple snakes, and a grouse with her chicks (right at the trailhead). Also bunchberry, Queen's cup, tiger lily, and lots of other beautiful little flowers. A beautiful place to camp.