The pups and I spent about 6 hours on the trails today. The plan was for Pete Lake, but I was bored with only that, so we went up to Waptus Pass as well. I had not been up there in over 15 years. Any snow that had fallen was melted, aside from a tiny bit up near the pass above 4,500 ft. A bear had left some nice fresh prints on a footbridge in the snow.

The trail is to Pete is muddy, as it often is, so wear your boots! There was plenty of water in puddles for the dogs, so carrying extra for just that trip alone would be optional. Otherwise the trail is in good shape. I think there was one tree to step over. Fall colors - stunning in places, not much in others. Nothing like the Alpine Lakes Wilderness BUT we only saw 2 people all day over 14 miles so I am satisfied. 

Pete Lake is lower than I have ever seen it. The dogs had fun slopping in the mud around the edge of the lake. I'll have fun cleaning out the car tomorrow. 

No bugs. The trail up to Waptus was lovely. No mud really. Beautiful short, steep switchbacks like I love with just the right amount of moisture and rock to dirt/bark ratio. I'm pretty particular, I guess. Lol. 

A day on the trails is a day well spent. Cheers. 

We hiked to Pete Lake today while on a trip visiting friends in Ronald.  This was my first time hiking here in over 30 years. It was 52 degrees with mostly cloudy skies when we pulled into the trailhead lot at 9:30. I was surprised no other cars were parked here.  The vault toilet was open with loads of TP but very smelly and could have used a good cleaning.  It felt like fall on the drive in and all along the trail.  All the vine maples, ash and willow trees were turning vibrant yellow, orange and red.  The trail in open areas is now hard packed wet soil and dry and dusty under heavy tree canopy.  One dead fall tree is across the trail but it was easy to walk around.  What left me with the biggest impression was the lack of water in Pete Lake!  I should not have been surprised after seeing basically no water in Cle Elum Lake on the drive in. The water depth in Pete Lake looked to be 3 to 4 feet at most and muddy islands were exposed through the lake.  Trail traffic was super light, we did not see anyone until on our return hike when we passed 5 other groups ranging in size from 2 to 6 hikers including 2 groups of overnight backpackers. Once at the lake we could see from Leman Mtn to Alta Peak.  There was no smoke in the air from nearby wildfires. Wildlife sightings were limited to chipmunks, squirrels, gray jays, wrens and a few mallard ducks floating on the lake.  After the first mile on the trail mushroom varieties were popping up everywhere.  We encountered a group of CWU students in the first 1/2 mile of the trail on our return picking all types of mushrooms for a class they were taking. There were 8 cars in the TH lot when we drove off at 2:45.  Another fantastic day out in nature with friends.

Arrived at the trailhead at 10:00 on a Saturday morning. Plenty of parking available. We saw about 4 groups getting ready to hit the trail, mostly backpacking. The fall foliage is around peak. Vibrant reds and oranges. Surprised by how low the lake is. The water level has dropped. Lots of large group campsites that we saw. All clean, no litter. We left the lake around noon and there was just one group of about 4 tents in a large clearing which opened to a rocky beach. As we headed out we passed lots of backpackers coming in, plenty of kids,  including a scout troop. Should be a lively, if chilly evening up there tonight!

What an incredible experience! This was my first backpacking experience, and there honestly couldn't have been a better spot. The lake was gorgeous, and the stars were beautiful. 

Trail was in fine condition -- dusty and horse manure but easily hikeable.  We saw no signs of "bong man and his donkey", although we did see a different donkey carrying baggage for a train of horses and riders. Watch out for horse and donkey manure!

There was some smoke in the air. We could occasionally smell it, and we could see the haze. It didn't bother us.  We did constantly hear helicopters and see a helicopter dropping water on the Pollalie Ridge fire. Helicopter noise was not the best, but we are so grateful for the work they do.  We know the helicopters working that fire help keep us safe.  We found out about the fire being so close after we got back home.

Pete is a beautiful day hike, pretty ideal for fall.  Highly recommended.  If the weather is somewhat wetter there are glorious fungi to be appreciated too.