Arrived at the June Lake trailhead around 7:20am, 59 degrees and about 10 vehicles.
The air smelled of wildfire smoke but the skies were clear. We made quick work of reaching the lake where a family with 3 tents was camped and another party of one or two was in the trees on the opposite side of the wash from lake.
We didn't bother stopping to look at June Lake, and headed straight up to gain the Loowit where we then headed East. The trail is in pretty good shape with exception of a short steep section shortly after you leave June Lake toward the Loowit. Then a short section with 3 downed logs in quick succession.
We heard pika meeping throughout the hike but didn't spy any until the return, when we spotted one scampering up a dusty slope. No meeps out of her. We didn't really see any other wildlife. We did see a handful of backpackers and one trail runner doing the Loowit loop around St. Helens. All confirmed that their last night was a dry (dry camping)- that the water at Pumice Butte was non-existent. One said there was NO water between the spring near Loowit Falls and June Lake, so the creek just South of Windy Pass must be dry too.
After snacking on ripe huckle berries we returned the way we came, stopping at June Lake for a quick peek at the lake and the falls. The huckleberries up on the Loowit are definitely smaller this year than last, drought-caused?
We passed a few people and one large group, once back on the June Lake trail. The lot had less cars upon our return, suggesting most vehicles belong to overnighters at the Lake and backpackers tackling the Loowit.
Another great day in the Gifford! #hikeathon
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