The last time I hiked this trail was in October of 2014. I wanted to see it in the summer to experience the wildflowers, and they did not disappoint. The only downside was the amount of biting insects and the lack of wind to keep them away. Stop for more than a few seconds and you become part of the food chain. Super annoying, but well-worth the price of admission to see this amazing country. This easily ranks as one of the best hikes in the PNW for me.
This is a loop trail, so you have two options for travel. From the trailhead you can choose to go clockwise (steeper going up), or counter-clockwise. If you hit the trail late in the day as I did, you may opt for the clockwise route in order to see the eastern area before it is in shadow. The wildflowers were stunning on this side.
The trail loops around Ann Lake which is receiving a lot of snow melt this time of year. The water is clear and beautiful as you would expect. Rainy Lake on the other side of the east ridge is fed by a large, stunning waterfall. I was unable to capture a decent photograph of Rainy Lake because it was mostly in shade at the time I passed it. There's simply beauty in every direction up here.
Ann Lake
Ann Lake
View to the north from the east ridge
Map & Stats
7.5 mi loop trail
2800 ft elev gain
4 hour hiking time at a moderate pace
Northwest Forest Pass required