[tennessee treader]

I am trying to decide on a good hike for my sons and need some group insights. My boys are 10 and 13; they have both hiked 2 or 3 times with me. I have been thinking about taking them to Upper Lena Lake next Summer, but I am concerned that the trail may be too primitive. They can do the mileage, I just wonder about the precarious ledges I have read about in the trail reports. I have not hiked the trail before, can boys make the hike or would you choose another destination? I'm open to suggestions.

[Damian]

The trail to Upper Lena is not dangerous or technical, unless something has changed in recent years. Its a tougher climb than you'd guess looking at the map. Kids that age should do fine. It's a great spot.

[Doomgoggles]

The only problem you might encounter is a creek crossing which can be tough during high snowmelt. (of course, you could just wade accross). A bad jump could end badly, though; it's close to a dropoff. Other than that, it's simply a rough steep trail - nothing unusual. I'm sure it's great when it's dry, but I've only done it in the rain. (If you're looking for alternatives: consider Royal Basin)

[gareite]

I have made the trip many times, and have never found it "dry" on the upper reaches. Not many views until you reach the upper lake either. Its a steep nasty hike, but for my money its a matter of being mentally ready for it. I attempted 2 hikes there with very fit people, but they just were not willing to expend the energy to finish it. ( the further into the hike you get, the tougher it gets)

[tofu chafing]

I was beginning to think all the adolescents were here on this board. Sending a couple to Upper Lena Lake to guard the outposts of our frontier makes alot of sense.

[sarbar]

Personally I'd recomend Royal Basin or Marmot Pass via Upper Big Quil. Trail or Upper Dungness River Trail. Just me though!

[tennessee treader]

"A tough hike and fit partners not willing to expend the energy". Those comments by gareite epitomize the essence of our America. People don't have a clue about how those great calendar shots are taken; they don't know the pain it takes to get a spectacular shot. For fathers, like myself, hiking is a great way to teach children about hard things that give a great payback. My plan on this one is to pitch camp at Lower Lena to shave off a few miles before the real pain begins for my sons. They know about pain ( Mount Armstrong 2005, Tuck - Robin Lakes 2004) and expect no less on this trip. Also, thanks to the group for the other trip suggestions. I will be base camping at my dad's place at Cushman, so the best Oly hike suggestions will be duly noted for future trips.