Schaefer Lake — Thursday, Sep. 27, 2018

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East

This was our 2nd attempt to cross the Chiwawa river. Last time we tried it was the end of October and the river was running high and was very cold. This time it was low but still cold but not nearly as wide to cross. Do the horse ford and bring water shoes for the crossing and just leave Off the trail for your return back across the river. The trail is in good shape. The first mile does have blueberry branches you have to plow thru but you can clearly see the trail. Don’t let this discourage you this hike is worth it. Once you get out of the river flood plain the trail starts to steadily but gradually climb. The switchbacks are long and make the hike up more bearable. At 3.5 miles is an actual wood bridge to cross on. At 4mi look for the lookout to the right of the trail. It has great views of the valley. Continue up to Little Schaefer lake or pond. A cute quiet green pond. Another 0.25 mi further and you come to Schaefer Lake. A beautiful quiet lake with a ridge line of Larches slowly starting to turn to their gorgeous yellow color. Saw a few fall asters at the lake area. Lots of pumice rocks on the trail the remnants of Glacier Peak erupting some 100+ yrs ago. We really enjoyed this hike and perfect time of year to do it.