Road: Wow! Graveled and somewhat steep but no potholes! Be sure to take the left fork (see directions).
Trail condition: Main trails mostly well-maintained but there were a few trees over trail that had to be walked around or stepped/climbed over. Some portions of the descents to the lakes were slippery with dry loose soil / gravel and relatively steep grades, especially at some switchbacks. One slippery steep muddy spot near Margaret Lake. Poles were appreciated and likely saved me a twisted ankle or two.
1st stop: Mount Margaret
Took the left fork at the signed Lake Lillian/Margaret Lake trail junction then continued the approximately 1/2 mile to the two small cairns marking the turnoff (on right) for Mount Margaret. They're "obvious" as long as you're looking out for them. Boot path steep but well-defined. Poles highly recommended. Be sure to go all the way to the top with awesome views to the north.
2nd stop: Twin Lakes
NOTE: There are TWO Twin Lakes trails near Snoqualmie Pass! This is the one on the way to Lake Lillian. After descending the boot path from Mount Margaret, we took a right on the Lake Lillian trail and about continued another mile (and 600' LOSS) to the lovely Twin Lakes. Enjoyed the peaceful location but chose not to continue to Lake Lillian as we wanted to be sure to have time (and energy) for Margaret Lake.
3rd stop: Margaret Lake
Retraced our steps back UP to the previously passed Lake Lillian/Margaret Lake trail junction and this time went left (DOWN) to Margaret Lake. Enjoyed a fabulous swim in the lake! Was not nearly as cold as I'd expected and I swam around a bit before reluctantly coming back to shore. Could have floated in there for an hour!
Alas, all good trails must come to an end and too soon we headed back UP to the junction and then DOWN to the cars. A fabulous day!
Other notes:
*nice views of Rainier start surprisingly early along the trail.
*got extra "exercise" with all the moving around at "stops" attempting to ward off the mosquitoes & flies. Surprisingly, I don't seem to have too many bites.
*Started at 7:30am. Had great shade all the way up and for most of the trail. The last (first) section was more in the sun by time we headed down. We were glad not to be ascending that section in the heat of the afternoon.
*If my calculations are correct, this itinerary makes for approximately 9 miles and 3000' overall elevation gain/loss.
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