Today was supposed to be my rest day after Lake of the Angels yesterday, with just a little river walk to stretch the legs, but I ended up logging a good eight miles, including bushwhacking the way trail to Hidden Lake.

The way trail was great! It would otherwise be hard to follow about half the time, but someone flagged it recently; some might say excessively. I know there are those who object to flagging, but I don't think there's any chance I would have found the lake (it is "hidden," after all!) today without it. 

Gaia shows the way trail beginning at the apogee of a big switchback on the Deer Lake trail. That's where I started, but (following the flags) on the way back, there was a much gentler connection to the main trail, maybe 50 feet uphill from that switchback angle. 

I didn't make it to Deer Lake, since I took the detour to Hidden Lake instead, but trail conditions were fantastic up that way. I started encountering sporadic snow after the way trail junction, and Hidden Lake was surrounded by and covered with snow, so I imagine Deer Lake was a similar experience. 

The big issue with this hike today, as it turns out, is the "Campground Trail" from the campground to Sol Duc Falls. That stretch was a nightmare of fallen trees! One-third to one-half of this segment was a constant struggle. The half closer to the campground was just fine. 

The Lover's Lane side of the loop has been nicely cleared out, in contrast -- just a couple trees to climb over or under. 

The falls themselves were roaring, but of course this area was the most populated part of my extended loop, which I don't enjoy these days (or ever, really). 

First hike of the day, got to the trailhead at 7am. Not sure how crowded this trail normally is during the day. but there were only a a couple other people on the trail. there were little patches of snow on side of the trail. But non on the trail. 

The road out to the Sol Duc trail is open and clear. We came out on a Monday morning, and while there were more people than I’d usually expect for a Monday because of spring break it never felt busy. There were a few logs down on the trail that we had to maneuver over and under, so maybe wait a bit to come here if you prefer to stay upright. The falls are beautiful and this is a great short hike. There are lots of viewing areas. With a bit of snow still on the ground the bridge by the falls was a bit icy so watch your step.

Great day for a hike, although the crowds were gathering by the time we got back to the parking lot at noon. However, there were at least four trees that have come down across the path! You have to go over or under — or in one case both — but that’s doable. Snow alongside the path, but the oath was clear. The bridge was quite slippery, but was melting and messy.

Great day for a hike, although the crowds were gathering by the time we got back to the parking lot at noon. However, there were at least four trees that have come down across the path! You have to go over or under — or in one case both — but that’s doable. Snow alongside the path, but the oath was clear. The bridge was quite slippery, but was melting and messy.