Beautiful, cool autumnal weather and the beginnings of fall colors made for a perfect introduction to this classic PNW hike! Arrived just after 9:30 with a few official spots still left in the lot. Kids set a quick pace to start, but I took it slower on the sometimes slippery and unstable terrain. Poles might have helped with a couple of sections, though the trail was in good condition, and you can see the results of the recent work. Definitely come prepared for water, mud, rocks, and roots, however; I saw some extremely optimistic footwear on more than a few fellow hikers. Quick thanks as well to the many folks who kept their dogs leashed, as the trail was busy. There was space enough for all, though, and the clear mountain views from the talus slope offered a moment to rest before we pushed through to the lake. I loved the loop around the lake, alternating between boardwalk and boulder, with the tall grass fields turning tan with feathery white tips, and yellow-orange growth in mirrored vistas across the water. By the time we returned after a long linger at the lake the lot was full at 1pm and cars lined up along the driveway in.

I picked up a bracelet dropped in the path and left it by the payment sign at the main info board at the trailhead as I was afraid it was going to get trampled. Hopefully it makes its way back to the owner!

Great 6.5 miler with the dogs! Lots of water access on the trail for thirsty pups. It’s a pretty popular hike so get in early.

The trail was slightly rugged and we had to scramble up a few rocks, but it was worth it! Even before we made it to the lake, we enjoyed the stunning landscape.

When we got to the trailhead at about 11 A.M the lot was packed. We won’t be sleeping in next time we hike…

We saw multiple parties on our way up and the lake was even more crowded. But the mountains were all worth it. We ended up spending about an hour at the lake and we even dipped our feet in.

Going back down was way easier than going up, but we were all exhausted by the time we got back to our car.

Before I say anything, I want to thank the trail crews for the work they are doing on this trail. The work they are doing is visible and easy to see the work is improving the trail.

I have some hiking trail building experience as many years ago I worked in the California Conservation Corps, so I have some appreciation and understanding of what's involved. Crews have to move materials up the trail, including lumber and poles to build causeways and staircases. They also have to break up rock. This is very hard, physical work. So, I just want to say "THANKS" to the trail crew.

The Lake 22 Trail is just over the ridge from Heather Lake. The two appear to be similar in appearance. Both have trails ringing the lakes and both are worthy excursions. Today, people rested on the rocks beneath was was a cloudy sky in the morning. 

Of the two, I think I prefer Lake 22 over Heather Lake. The trail is a bit longer, but easier to navigate. It took me about 1 hour 15 minutes to reach from the trail head.

I arrived Just after 8 a.m. and there was still quite a bit of parking. Keep in mind you're supposed to have a parking pass. They are available in the box near the sign at the trail entrance.

The trail is in really good shape overall, thanks to above-mentioned trail crews doing work. There are new stairways and raised causeways. 

I think the most difficult section is more than half-way in where the trail comes out of the forest into an avalanche chute. The trail has several switchbacks and a trail made up of large gravel-type rock. The trail climbs a lot during these switch backs. 

The trail goes back into the woods and continues to climb. 

You can tell when you're getting close to Lake 22. The trail becomes relatively level. You'll pass along a creek to your left and see an exposed rock slide area cross the creek. You come down a small hill onto a boardwarlk.

There is a trail going around the lake that's worth walking. It's probably a mile long. Some of it is on boardwalks and some of it is dirt. There is a significant portion that passes through a rock slide. Some of the boulders are bigger than cars. It's an interesting and beautiful section of the trail. There are little places where people can access or sit along the lake. 

All in all, this is a nice trail. Worth the time and the effort.

Beautiful hike. Arrived at the trailhead around 10:30 am and the lot was full, but there was plenty of parking at the nearby Hemple Creek picnic area. A few scattered spots left in both lots around 3:30 pm. You can see how your feet would get pretty wet on this hike earlier in the season, but by now the rivulets crossing the trail are basically just seeps. Lake water was perfect for swimming on a warm, sunny day. Definitely recommend adding on the trail around the lake. Poles are good for this hike too. Such a lovely spot.