Three friends and I enjoyed a "lollipop" loop trail that used the Pete Lake Trailhead as our starting point while spending time on the PCT/Escondido Ridge/Spectacle Lake. We did about 33+/- miles over three days/two nights using the following route:
Pete Lake Trail (Trail 1323) to Waptus Pass Trail (1329) to Waptus Burn (129.3) on to the PCT along Escondido Ridge down through Lemah Meadows and up to Spectacle Lake (1306) and then back down the PCT to Pete Lake trail (1323) out to the trailhead.
Observations on the trails:
* Pete Lake Trail (1323) - Trail is in superb shape with ample water available in multiple areas.
* Waptus Pass (1329) - From Pete Lake Trail it is pretty steep heading north towards the lake. Ample water available and easy to follow.
* Waptus Burn (1329.3) - Trail is overgrown in some areas and has multiple blow downs over trail. While we could always find the trail there were a few spots where we had to investigate before finding it again. No water available.
* PCT from Waptus Burn to Spectacle Lake - Trail is overall in pretty good shape and easy to follow. Please note that past Lemah Meadows the bridge is out over Lemah Creek and the lower crossing has a log you can use to cross the creek. Ample water is available in multiple locations along this stretch.
*Spectacle Lake - Rough trail down to the lake. Superb camping spots on the Peninsula. Note that the "toilet" sign location is lying. Go about 50 feet down from the sign and follow a small footpath to the actual toilet box if you need it.
If you are coming back from Spectacle Lake via the Pete Lake Trail note that the connector from the PCT will require you to ford the creek. Maximum depth was about 2' deep. One friend walked barefoot while others used sandals (I just walked through in my shoes).
Overall, we had a great time even with some rain and smoke. We camped at Vista Lakes (West end of Escondido Ridge on PCT) and Spectacle Lake. I would highly recommend this loop!
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