This past week's windstorm wasn't enough to take out this section of the Wonderland Trail on the Carbon River.
Our group of Mountaineers (Tacoma, Foothills, Olympia) trekked first to Ipsut Backcountry Camp and Ipsut Falls, then returned back to the Green Lake trailhead. We then headed up to Ranger Falls and Green Lake. Some lingering snow over the footbridges have iced up so use caution and read below. Important to note Chenuis Falls .3 miles is also worth going to right now.
PARKING: Plentiful. Bring your America the Beautiful pass to display on your dashboard.
CARBON TRAIL TO IPSUT: You can ride bikes here but the walk up the road is spectacular with fall foliage, fungai, and every shade of green. You'll see some pretty giant trees as well.
There were no recent obstacles or blow downs along the Carbon River Rd. up to Ipsut. If you go to the falls you will need to boulder hop across Ipsut Creek, trekking poles and boots were handy here.
GREEN LAKE TRAILHEAD: After the first leg we took the trail up through to Ranger Falls and then Green Lake at 1.8 miles.
HAZARDS: The log bridge across the creeks just prior to Ipsut and Green Lake were icy. Today it was a bit slippery but has a good handrail. We also had brought our micro spikes. Also this trail had a few very minor blowdowns, easy to cross. At Green Lake there was light snow 3300' elevation. It gets dark early! We started out at 8 am.
WEATHER: No wind, no rain, 39 degrees most of the way. Upper foothills surrounding the lake are getting dumped on with snow the past few weeks.
15.45 miles, 2000' elevation gain
Comments
Maddy on Carbon River to Ipsut Falls, Green Lake
Great photo of Ranger falls
Posted by:
Maddy on Nov 24, 2024 08:27 AM
Lisa Elliott on Carbon River to Ipsut Falls, Green Lake
Thank you Maddy! I enjoy your journeys :)
Posted by:
Lisa Elliott on Nov 24, 2024 08:32 AM