Thompson Lake via Granite Creek Trail — Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026

Nothing would suggestion that today we were experiencing winter-like conditions in the mountains except for a few lingering snow fields. 

I've been on this trail when there is feet, (foot?) deep of snow, questionable snow bridges and a potholing nightmare. Not today. There was even a warm wind blowing down the trail that made conditions feel like a warm summer morning. 

I arrived at the parking lot at 0800 and I was the only one there. I promptly got started at 0810 wearing base layer, a winter beanie, gloves and a warm coat but would soon shed all of that at the Granite Creek Connector Junction. Speaking of the junction, the Granite Creek Connector trail is closed there. Just FYI.

Onward to the second junction and, not only was I saturated in my own sweat but there was literally no snow on any of the trail leading up to this point. I had read some previous trip reports that would suggest there would be snow on the way to Thompson Lake, and there was but it would require no snowshoes, no spikes, or crampons. Just some leisurely hiking through it. I only postholed once and I couldn't even really call it a posthole because my foot sunk maybe a foot while in someone else's print. 

The trail is in great condition, otherwise. There is a large tree down closer to the lake that I had to drop pack, and crawl under. All the creek crossings were easily forded by stepping on rocks- poles helped for balance. 

The trail to Thompson Lake is a long, arduous climb with some elevation loss that you'll need to make up on the return trip but it was a nice "hiking season" opener. 

14.2 miles R/T, 3,500-ish Vert

3hrs to the lake TOT time: 6.5 hrs.