Independence and North Lakes — Thursday, Jun. 12, 2003

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

Tried to hike to Independence Lake back in April but had to turn around due to lack of 4x4 (deep snow on the road). Road clear all the way to trailhead. One big tree across trail which is fairly easy to navigate. 45 minutes to lake. Nice lake. Didnt make it to North Lake due to hiking with friend who refused cross the lake outlet via the slippery log. I myself gave a poor impression of being a lumberjack and fell into knee deep water which was rather cold..There were some bugs which were more annoying than anything else. Next stop, Minotaur Lake.