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WA
Our long-anticipated trip to The Enchantments began in mid-August with an overnight trip to Leanvenworth, WA and some amazing Brats for dinner in town. This was the perfect base for an early start up to Colchuck Lake for our three day adventure that began with the engagement of my youngest daughter at our campsite on the lake. The following day we tackled the intimidating Aasgard Pass to visit the Core Enchantments area and some of the most amazing views in the state.
I very rarely repeat a hike. There are simply too many trails out there to pass up a new experience. This trail was low on my list but I thought it might be a good last minute sunset hike so I grabbed my headlamp and drove to Snoqualmie Pass. The first part of the trail is on the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail), and I always enjoy that, especially when I meet through-hikers. This time it was just me and three women that were just returning to the trailhead as I was starting. The rest of the time it was a wonderful, solo hike - half at dusk and half in the dark.
Annette Lake is accessed from the last exit west of Snoqualmie Pass south of I-90. This hike is pretty short, simple and thus heavily used for both day hikes and easy backpacking. The trail was very well maintained and dry for the most part. We passed some beautiful rolling waterfalls near the beginning and a few talus fields just before the lake. There are lots of logs to sit on in the sun to eat lunch.
I started just before 10am and could see that the tops of the mountain were covered in snow, but didn't know what I was getting into because I couldn't find any reviews about the snow level and trail conditions. I figured I would just go as far as I could and turn back if I didn't think I could make it. I didn't have any spikes for traction or waterproof boots (both on my Christmas list :) but I had my trekking poles. It was slow and slippery and crazy windy, but I made it! More than any other hike, this one taught me the value of being prepared with quality gear.
