Wanted to do lookout mountain lookout but due to the haze decided on going to the lake (which is a little more difficult). However, there are such amazing mountain views on the way to the lake that we wished it weren't that hazy.

A lot of flies from the meadows onward but they didn't bite so not a real problem.

Getting to the lake took 3.5 hours. Getting back to the car took 2.5 hours. Recommend climbing a few steps after the lake (When you reach the lake, the trail that goes to the left) to get nice views of the lake with the surrounding mountain (see first pic) 

I did a double-header on what turned out to be a sizzling summer day and now my legs don't work anymore. Hit the trail just after 8:30am and went straight up to Lookout Mountain. Trail is in good shape, save for a couple of brushy spots and a small patchy of mucky drainage, largely because someone (WTA?) has clearly been doing trail work. Thanks to whoever that was!

From the very first step, the trail climbs with a vengeance and it basically never stops. (As NW writer Bill Dietrich says, "it builds character like a Puritan preacher.") The lookout is lovely, but the visibility wasn't great owing to what I think was wildfire smoke that was impairing the views in 360 degrees. Bugs were definitely out too, which were mostly tolerable, except for the biting black flies that have a way of (literally) getting under my skin. 

I scarfed down a nectarine and some trail mix, then descended back to the trail junction. From there, I took a crack at the Monogram Lake trail, which was built with the same ethos. Same story on this trail: mostly in great shape, but with a little intermittent brush and one short muddy spot that's probably eligible for a boardwalk treatment. Lake was lovely and, oddly, almost vacant. I crammed a sandwich in my mouth, hobbled back up to the ridge, popped the ibuprofen and enjoyed the descent. 

A sunny Thursday called for a top notch trek. I set out from Cascade River Road at 9am on a splendid hike to Lookout Mountain and Monogram Lake.

The lower section switchbacks to the overgrown clearing were in great shape and made for speedy travel. The overgrown clearing is akin to a bushwhack. Foliage including copious nettles obscure the trail. Be very careful traveling through as beyond the stinging nettles are hidden rocks and steps just waiting to ruin a hike with a sprained ankle.

Beyond this section, the trail is free and clear again, save for a couple of blow downs along the way which simply add some fun in climbing over and around. The meadow traverse is clear and the views of the valley are amazing! 

There are a few sections of snow along the switchbacks to the lookout. They are not difficult to cross and will likely be gone in a week or so. The top of the ridge will no doubt hold its snow for several weeks more, but it is flat and easy to cross.

The lookout itself is in fine shape, and obviously lovingly cared for. My sincere thanks goes out to those who take on this task in order to keep such amazing locales open for those willing to exert the energy to reach them!

On the way back down, I turned up the Monogram Lake trail. The climb is steep in spots, but snow free to the basin. The basin holds streams running strong which provided a great spot to douse my head for relief from the now hot midday sun. The basin itelf is probably 80% snow covered, but the trek to the ridge is still completely covered. The route is simple, and there is blue flagging which is spot on the trail if in need. The opposite side of the ridge is snow free to the lake save two easily passable sections.

I arrived at the lake and was speechless... Which was good since there was nobody there. What a brilliant scene of solitude and beauty! The lake is melted out, and the green trees, early season wildflowers and snowmelt streams mixed with the remaining snow patches, contrasted incredibly with the deep blue of the lake.

I spent 30 minutes or so at the lake taking it all in and wishing I had brought overnight gear. 

I saw no bears, but that disappointment was negated by the surprising lack of bugs.

I passed a pair prior to the junction heading for the lake on my descent. I would assume they had an excellent overnight.

It was a quick descent, save the overgrown section, which proved to be the most difficult portion of the trail.

What a brilliant day in the North Cascades! 

Attempted to hike to Monogram Lake with my buddy; turned around about 4400 ft elevation not far past the North Cascades NP boundary.  Only a couple trees down across the switchbacks prior to the creek crossing and that's where it got messy.  Massive tree blown down forces the first departure from the trail, and it's difficult or dangerous to follow the trail from there on out due to falling through snow due to meltwater beneath.  Be careful of bridge crossings; they've melted partially out and you can fall a few feet through what you thought was solid snow.  We had microspikes and GPS and used the GPS fairly extensively; snowshoes wouldn't have helped on this hike had we brought them.  There was approx 4 feet of snow at our turnaround, and we still had 1k feet of elevation gain to the ridge you must crest before descending to Monogram lake, so we called it there.  

This is a tough trail but the reward of Monogram Lake at the end is worth it. Leave early to avoid the heat and get the better camp site at the top of the hill. The flies were out and biting, but not unbearable with insect repellent. As others mentioned, there are fallen trees across the trail in several areas. There were two very overgrown lengths of trail, so long sleeves and pants are recommended. Watch out for nettle and thorns through these areas.  We shared the lake with one other group, which was great. There were ripe berries everywhere which made for a nice snack once we reached the lake. The lake was perfect swimming temperature at this time of year. Bring a collapsible fishing pole if you have one. Caught and released 10 cutthroat trout ranging from 4-11 inches. The Chevron gas station near the wildlife information center sells fishing permits.