Note: Due to a dam removal project, Bagley Lakes trail cannot currently be accessed from the regular trailhead nor can it be hiked as a loop since parts of the trail are closed.

We were already parked at the Bagley Lakes trailhead and ready to hike when we saw the notice posted about the trail closure, so we ended up hiking up the Wild Goose trail from there to the Heather Meadows visitor center, then down to the stone bridge, and a short way along the Bagley Lakes Trail before returning the way we came. Be aware this route has more elevation gain (in both directions), and is steeper and rockier than the regular Bagley Lakes loop.

The upside of this route - So.Many.Blueberries! A few were mushy, but many were at peak ripeness and deliciousness. Also, great views, and not too crowded along the Wild Goose section. Fall colors are starting to show, especially as you go up in elevation.

Found a pair of pants right by the Bagley bridge on the south end, and a blue plaid jacket on the Bagley trail. Left both at the Bagley trailhead.

Gorgeous day, tons of social trails which is frustrating but to be expected unfortunately. Some nats at Iceberg beach but weren’t too annoying.

A beautiful day, deceivingly hot, as this hike is very exposed. We started at the lower lot and went counter clockwise. Saw some frogs, a deer, some picas, tons of blueberries, and flowers. Brings lots of water- and a filter too is nice to have. This loop took us a while in the heat- a total of about six hours - this included about a half hour lunch break at the saddle and about 45 minutes cooling off at iceberg lake.

It was surprisingly windy and chilly at Heather Meadows, despite being a warm day in Mount Vernon (around 73°F). I parked at the Heather Meadows Visitor Center, which was closed at the time. The restrooms were available but unfortunately had a strong odor. I had lunch at one of the picnic tables near the parking area before starting down toward Bagley Lake around 2:30 PM. From there, I walked a short distance along the Chain Lakes Trail before looping back to complete the Bagley Lakes Loop. Headed back to the parking lot in a couple of hours.