Cathedral Rock — Saturday, Jul. 26, 2008

Snoqualmie Region > Salmon La Sac/Teanaway

Just before reaching the trailhead, while still in our vehicle, we spotted the mama bear and her cub that we had read about off in Tacquala Meadows. At least we knew we were headed the other direction. The three of us ladies set off on Tuesday afternoon with the plan of hiking from Tacquala Meadows up to Cathedral Rock (4 miles) and spending the night on the right. However, because of the lovely rain and disappearing daylight, we set camp underneath the ridge. On the way up, we spotted a large marmot(?) and he ever so kind to let us take his picture. The next morning, we set off on the PCT down towards Deception Pass (5 miles or so). There were several stream crossings; two of which were dicey and the last one was the worst!! Had it much higher we would have had to turn around. The PCT was also overgrown. I forgot my machete!! The views were phenomenal, especially with the turquoise and green Hyas Lakes below - breathtaking... We set camp at Deception Pass just a little ways down the Marmot Lake trail. Our third day out, we decided to let our bodies rest sans pack so we headed for a day hike to the beautiful Marmot Lake (7 miles round trip from Deception Pass). I have never seen so many frogs! This trail had the blow downs and snow. There was one spot where the snow covered the trail all together and one had to climb down and around it to reach the trial on the other side. Upon getting to the lake, we were the only ones there. What a treat!! It was beautiful and well worth the hike. We soaked up the sun while dipping our toes in the ice cold water. Dreamy. We ran into two WTA employeess - Erik and Tim? They were the first people we had seen in 3 days! Hello and here is our post! The fourth day, we broke camp in the rain - but luckily it stopped. We hiked out the remaining 5 miles to the trailhead. We spotted the WTA work crew working along the Hyas Lake trail. Thanks guys! The views of the little and big Hyas were again breathtaking. Alas we made it to the trailhead, but we had to get a jump.. and then we got a flat!! The hills were not ready to let us go. Overall, we had a wonderful time... I love how nature restores my soul.