Hidden Lake Lookout backpacking: 25 May 2019

I love backpacking! don't you?



This trip was to Hidden Lake Lookout in Washington, this was my first time there, and generally this is an easy summer hike.
We did attain a back-country permit from the Marble Mount Ranger Station, you can also get blue bags and a bear canister there as well.

At this time of year, the hike starts out as any other summer trail, lots of greenery, little streams, and exposed roots.


The trail starts at 3600 feet, and continues through switchbacks to around 4200 feet, where at this of year you will lots of melting snow. Expect post-holing with the under running streams! Thread carefully.
A few bugs too!



For a quick look at a topo: https://caltopo.com/m/V5GF#

Once, you past the little streams, you start on switchbacks, which eventually leads to the snow after about half a mile.
The flowers were in full bloom :)




At this point, the trail disappears and the angle on the snow is between 30 and 45 degrees, I highly recommend an ice axe to complete this traverse to the lookout. We hit this area at around 1pm, with the sun on the snow, it was slushy and slippery, spikes kinda help, but making sure your ice axe is well placed and footing secure, will be best.



Carrying around 30 pounds each, this does take some time, luckily you have Mt Baker and the peaks of the North Cascades to keep you company ;)
Note: there are bears in the treeline at this time, so a bear canister is required to store all food!

We setup out tent on the base of the lookout, with Baker and the Hidden Lake peaks for sunrise and sunset views.


Very few people were on this trail, maybe 4..lol
We did see a number of people without poles, or ice axes, I wouldn't recommend it.They also did not do any research on the trail or read a trip a report, as we got asked a few times, "Is there more snow?"

p.s This was the first time I took a selfie!

Staying out here and seeing sunrise and sunset is certainly a treat!

Beware there are very "friendly"marmots at the top..lol
When camping here, it is snow camping, be prepared, an R5 sleeping mat, a 10 degree sleeping bag at minimum for someone like me who feels very cold :)


The lake was frozen at this time, but you could see signs of melting at the edges, hence I have to come back to view the amazing color...



After all that, once back in the "real world", a beer was much needed!!



Cheers
Neel


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