[BeyondLost]

Ordinarily Peg and I would have visited Blue Lake before this time in the season but it has been unpleasant with all the smoke. The smoke from the Methow Valley fires is gone and the air was brisk and clear as we hit the trail 8:00AM Tuesday. There were a few cars in the parking lot but did not see anyone on the way up nor did see see anyone at the lake. We pushed up quickly as it was chilly and brisk walking helped warm us. The sun was just peeking over Liberty Bell and the Early Winters Spires as we approached the lake highlighting the peaks. We spent an hour on the rocks and wandering the hillside before starting back down. It was starting to warm up by then and the sun was out so got some nice photos in the avalanche chutes. The huckleberries are still not ripe. The fish were jumping and I kind of regretted I had not brought my fly rod. Some eye candy of the trip. Blue Lake still ranks as one of the prettiest, short hikes in the North Cascades.

We did meet the hikers coming up as we descended but not all that busy. After enjoying some coffee and resting at the picnic table we headed on for hike #2 of the day at Lake Anne.

[puzzlr]

Nice. Can't say I was aware that there was a maintained trail to this lake. I'll have to check it out sometime.

[BeyondLost]

Great trail! The climbers use the first mile or so also when climbing Liberty Bell or the spires.

[PorcupinePhobia]

Well that does it. I'm jumping in Blue Lake on friday

[Magellan]

Good stuff, BL. We went last year during larch season. We were a bit late on the larches and we were late in the day. The lake didn't sparkle since it was in the shadows. A return trip is warranted.

[NacMacFeegle]

Blue lake is spectacular!

[fungal05]

Which Blue Lake is this, the short hike about 4 miles by Mt. Baker?

[BeyondLost]

No, Blue Lake along Hwy 20 near Washington Pass in the North Cascades.

[fungal05]

When you said you were late for the larches, when did you go? I'd like to see the larches, and am planning to go on October 18, Saturday. I hope I am not too late.

[fungal05]

Magellan, When you said you were late for the larches, when did you go? I'd like to see the larches, and am planning to go on October 18, Saturday. I hope I am not too late.

[MtnManic]

The 18th *might* be too late - I've hit peak on the 5th, the 10th - been too late on the 2nd and 9th... Don't wait too late in the day...lake will be in shadow, as already mentioned.

[fungal05]

mtmaniac, okay, heading out on the 4th instead. I was told that there are other trails along Blue Lake that takes you to a ridge with beautiful views; any tips on that, adding more mileage and beauty? Thanks!

[Bedivere]

I've only ever been up there when it's all buried under many feet of snow. Maybe this is the year I'll go up and see it before it disappears.

[BeyondLost]

There are trails partially around Blue Lake on both sides. The one on the west side is on a ridge and there are spurs off that trail you can explore twosome ponds. You do have a nice view of the spires to the east and mountains and valley to the west and north from the ridge. It's not a lot more mileage though.