Larch Lake back pack: Sept. 30th -Oct. 2nd: 20 miles Class B
Sept. 30th-Oct. 2nd: Larch Lake for Fall Colors. Round Trip 20 miles. Class B hike. In the shadow of the tall Chiwaukum Mountains lie two lakes rimmed by rocks and groves of brightly colored Larch Trees and basecamps for high wandering. Waterfalls and three nice bridges will greet us in a lovely forest. Directions: Driving distance: 288 miles from Washougal. 5 hours and 45 minutes. Take HWY 2 to Colter Creek Road to Colter Creek Forest Road 6930RD. Stay on road 13 miles to Larch Lake TH. We could meet at Fisher Landing Transit Center lot: address is 3510 SE 164th Ave. Vancouver WA. Park in first lot on left. Outer lot. 6:00 AM.
We will hike in to Glacier Creek night one and camp, hiking on up to Larch Lake for second night unless we can make it to Larch Lake on Friday. There are side trips which can be made on Saturday to McCue Ridge and Lake Julius. Elevation gain in is 3878 feet. High point is 6078 feet. Please bring ten essentials; tent, back pack, warm sleeping bag, I like to put an SOL blanket under my tent and under my pad inside the tent for added warmth. I carry a Z-pad and a Thermarest blow up pad for comfort and warmth. A warm set of clothes to sleep in is nice. I enjoy my down sleeping pants and a wool shirt, down booties or wool socks. I usually sleep also in my down jacket so I can put my arms out of my bag. Food: You will need two breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners. I recommend bringing tea for evenings. You will need stove and fuel unless you are sharing with someone else. A good pair of boots with traction is needed. Bring water filter. Bring small personal first aid kit and knife, whistle and flash light. Bring gloves, warm hat and sun hat or hat with brim. Bring extra underwear and 2-3 pairs of extra socks. Be prepared to hang your food or use an UHR sack. I like the UHR Sack that has velcro inside pull cord. Keeps small critters out better. Small things; sun glasses, personal hygiene kit, Matches. I like the Dollar store lighter that is a little longer than most. Usually right by the check out counter. I will print maps for everyone. Self issuing permits are available at the trail head. Be prepared to carry out all used Toilet Paper. Brown bags will be handed out for use. Maximum group size is 12. Special request for dogs must go through hike leader. Dogs are counted as part of the 12 heart beats. If you have questions call Linda Conrad at 360-907-5096 Leaders: Linda Conrad and Nicole Beatty.
