My daughter (12) and I hiked in on a Monday from the Thomas Lake Trailhead and the area is busy even mid week. Mosquitoes have disappeared for the season and disappointed berry pickers were about checking out the meager crop this year. Anywhere on the PCT is buzzing with thru hikers, section hikers and day trippers. All and all still a lovely time of the year to be out in this gentle and easily accessible wilderness for hikers of all ages.
Smoke conditions were mostly non existent but there were occasional moments to remind us that fires are not far away as a white shroud cloaked the valleys below.
Cross-country hikes to the summits of East Crater and Gifford Peak were amongst the highlights of this two-night trip.
Blue Lake is a stunning gem but so well loved that we opted to make camp at a less-frequented spot and day hike there.
Trails are in excellent condition but there is one large blowdown on The Thomas Lake Trail about one mile from the trailhead where hikers have created a trail around.
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