Chain Lakes Loop — Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023

Ample parking at Heather Meadows visitor center at 930 am Saturday but it filled quickly as we got ready to start. Hiked counter clockwise to get the biggest climb done while our 6 year old had the most energy. Views were incredible throughout the hike. All dogs we passed were leashed. This was a very busy trail with all levels of hikers. At the lakes we stepped aside for a group of 30! Pack your patience for large groups. We finished on the wild goose trail down from Artist point. The short sections of stairs were difficult, I was front carrying my 1.5 year old, but we all did fine going slow. Looking back at the beginning of the hike from above the parking area was very fun for the kids. Our 6 year old finished strong and there was ample running water on 2/3 of the trail for our dogs but we did go through 6 liters between our family of 5 and 2 dogs. I was surprised to only see rangers in the parking lot I imagine some people hike down to the lakes from Artist Point not realizing what a climb back up it will be.