Wing Lake, Lewis Lake & Heather - Maple Pass Loop — Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024

Was feeling a little crazy today so we decided to go to Maple Pass on a Saturday. We arrived at 7:15 and instead of even checking to see if there was any available parking I just decided to park along the line of other cars. From the car it was only a short quarter mile walk to the trailhead. The trailhead gas 4 bathrooms and even with 4 there was a huge line at every single one. Started the trail of counter clockwise which is the best way to go if you want gradual gain. After the turn off to go to Lewis Lake we got some snow but not enough to put on the spikes. The hike down to Lewis Lake can be a pain in the butt as you’re climbing over boulders looking for the next cairns. The views at Lewis Lake were superb and the clouds made it even more beautiful. The hike from Lewis to Wing Lake is pretty much straight up most of the way and you’re gaining 1,100 feet in a little over a mile. The slog is worth it with the views of Wing Lake with Black Peak in the background. Seemed like a whole community at Wing Lake with all of the campers. The hike back to the pass was long and slow. Once we got back to the pass it was back to seeing the trains of people. The best thing about getting off trail and seeing Lewis and Wing Lake was not having to deal with as many people. Larches are out, some of the fall colors seem like they have faded a bit. Such a beautiful day. Round trip ended up being 13.3 miles and 4,101 feet elevation gain.