Copper Ridge Loop, Brush Creek to Tapto Lakes — Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022

On one hand, we got unlucky with the weather. On the otherhand, we still got an amazing hike with some fun stories (and sore muscles).

Night 1 - TH to Hannegan Pass

We saw the thunderstorm roll in right as we parked at the trailhead, and we decided to wait it out until hiking to Hannegan Pass that night. Apparently, it hailed, and the people coming down sounded (and looked) miserable. We were blissfully unaware of the fires caused by the storm and found a nice spot at Hannegan Pass.

Day 1 - Hannegan Pass to Whatcom Pass/Tapto Lakes

The next day was largely uneventful until we had just crossed the Chilliwack (cable car in good condition and quite fun) - we ran into three people on the PNT, and two of them (a couple) reported three fires burning. We had spotted a small fire on the left side of the valley (Copper Ridge?) from Hannegan Pass that morning, but we were unsure if it actually was a fire. Now, we were certain. As we made our way towards Graybeal, We spotted three fires on the left side of the valley (Indian/Red Face Mountain), but they seemed very small - one was in a previously burned-out zone. There was some smoke, but an insignificant amount. We weren't too concerned.

We could see a large plume from what seemed to be past the valley (and further along the Copper Loop trail). We continued along to Whatcom, and eventually to Tapto Lakes. Graybeal was somewhat tricky to navigate - there should be a collapsed, rotting log that marks - we went underneath it and climbed up the other side. By the time we got to Whatcom Pass, the tainted smoke from the fire we hadn't spotted earlier was clearly visible now. The views from Tapto were amazing. Highly, highly recommend if you get the chance. If you only make it to Whatcom Pass, do yourself a favor and spend the extra effort to get to the intersection in the road (includes the trail to Tapto). Great views of Mt. Challenger await you.

Day 2 - Tapto Lakes - TH

On our last day, the smoke from the small fires we had seen earlier turned significantly worse overnight. As we passed by, we could still see smoldering trees above and to the right of the trail. A thick blanket lay over the valley as we hurried across the Chilliwack. The air cleared up significantly somewhere between U.S Cabin and Copper Creek. By now, we figured that the trail was closed because we hadn't seen anyone except another duo that were also trying to leave the loop. Our suspicions were confirmed when we saw the "TRAIL IS CLOSED" sign at Boundary Camp. All in all, a tough hike with rewarding views.