We hiked to Henskin Lake on July 5th and it was gorgeous. The water was crystal clear—you could see trout swimming below—and cool enough to wade in without freezing. The trail was mellow and a perfect next step for our kids, who hadn’t gone this far before.

We were so excited to come back the next weekend with the kids, dog, and fly rods. Unfortunately, that’s when the mosquitoes hatched. It was brutal—we all got 30+ bites and couldn’t enjoy hanging out by the lake. Lesson learned: next time we’ll go early summer or later in the fall when bugs aren’t as bad. And if you go mid-summer, definitely pack bug spray and protective clothing. 

Overall, it’s still an awesome family- and dog-friendly hike with pretty wildflowers, frogs, small trout, an old mine to peek into (with a plastic skeleton behind bars), and fun views of the ski runs we know from winter. Just watch out for bugs!

Crystal Mountain Clean Up Day! Started at the top of the Peak 6 chair and worked my way down the mountain. There is a lot of steep terrain at Crystal. Awesome day on the mountain with a great group of people giving back. Lots of garbage was removed from the slopes and adjoining wilderness. I personally found a GoPro (which they are trying to reunite with the owner), a walkie-talkie, a clutch charger port, a Victoria's Secret bra and countless shot bottles of Fireball. I love this area, so I appreciate all who volunteered their time.

Be safe people

Fall colors are nice oranges at the lake (approaching peak color but not yet), but color only starting to come in yellow for most of the trail. If you want color now, try Sheep Lake, etc. farther up 410.

Quite a few mushrooms popping up, though I saw more on the short path up to Suntop Lookout. A few lingering flowers along the way, mostly pearly everlasting. Heard an elk bugling.

The beginning of this hike isn't the best, giving the impression of a service path for some sections: lots of rocks, criss-crossing paths, cut through younger pines. Once past the ski slope and to the old mine, much more pleasant. A steady uphill but never terribly steep or strenuous. 

Skeleton's still in the mine.

Got up to the Crystal lot around noon. There were 3 dozen cars, but we didn't see many people around - the facilities are closed, including the restrooms. There are some tables to sit and eat if you take food, but not much else.

We headed up the Bullion Basin Trail, but signs there ambiguously indicated "the old trail is closed." Which old trail? We went back down 100 feet and there was another sign telling us to go around the yurt and up the more gradual path. So we headed north parallel to the road and then looped back on the Blue Bell Loop. We headed up Silver Creek to Henskin Lake. The two skeletons in the mine must've gotten into a tussle as they're both twisted piles of bones.

Didn't see anyone until we go to Henskin, where there was a group of 4 by the shore. We stopped for a bit to watch fish jump then headed to Upper Henskin. There were SO many tiny almost camouflaged toads. We thought we were going to trample on them, so we turned around. Got back onto the Crystal Mt Trail and headed up to the Summit House. We saw signs warning that in case of lightning, head up there. Interesting. Wouldn't be my first choice.

The trail below the lifts offered some nice views of the valley below and to the east at Crown Point and Bullion Basin. We had a shot of Adams as well. There were some steep drop-offs in a few spots on the continual climb up. We arrived at the Summit House after a 5.5 mile trek up. We had a bite to eat and admired all below and, of course, Rainier.

We ignored the signs stating the road was too steep and slippery for walking. We were looking for the quickest exit. Took the road straight down to the east and made the 2.95 miles in about 42 minutes. Definitely quicker.

Nice sunny hike out of Crystal Mtn Resort. The trail starts steep but mellows out. Someone tossed a plastic skeleton into the old Gold Creek Mine. I'm not sure how long it's been in there. Don't worry, the entrance is gated. Henskin, Upper Henskin, and a couple of ponds were peaceful and serene. Very nice autumn colors. 🍂