Lake 22 — Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

We didn’t have much company on this hike since it was pouring rain. It was a pleasant hike, very rarely muddy, although there was substantial water on the trail. I recommend either waterproof boots or wool socks to keep warm. The lower part of the hike has lost the fall colors; it was mostly evergreens. When we got to an open switchback which usually gives a good view into the valley, I found I didn’t miss the long distance view (which was obstructed with haze & clouds) because there were so many beautiful fall leaves packed on the trail. We had expected from the previous trip reports to reach some snow, and we were a little disappointed to find that it had all melted away. I guess we will have to wait for the temperature to drop a little more to start the season of snow ball fights. Even though we missed the snow, the view of the lake was gorgeous! I haven’t been up to that lake since the boardwalks around to the left of the lake were constructed, and it made for a pleasant stroll with great views. The waterfalls on the opposite side of the lake were huge from the heavy downpour. We stopped for lunch and cooked up some hot apple cider, which was a delicious way to stay warm since most of our rain gear was saturated. All in all a great day hike!