I usually try to make the best of my days off. Despite the fact that I returned from Mt. Hood on Sunday, David and I planned to head out to the Henry M. Jackson Wilderness on Monday morning for another backpacking trip. This time we chose Blanca Lake. We based this decision on the fact that the pictures on the Washington Trails Association website made this lake look like a little slice of heaven. The description boasted an alpine lake fed by a glacier, making the water a light teal color. This seemed hard to believe.
Two and a half hours past Seattle, we arrived at the trail head to Blanca Lake. This 3.5 mile hike didn't mess around. We hiked up over a dozen switchbacks to the top of the hill in front of us. At the top, we were greeted with delightful views of Glacier Peak in the distance. Soon after, we passed Virgin Lake. Campsites seemed abundant here, but I don't think I would recommend it. The lake was coated with an unpleasant scum, probably providing some really foul drinking water. We pressed on.
David and Glacier Peak
Disgusting Virgin Lake
The trail descended into a valley where we could a hear a river rushing deep below us. Parts of this trail involved seriously tricky footing, but nothing the average hiker shouldn't be able to handle. Soon we caught our first glimpse of Blanca Lake. Bright teal waters peaked through the spaces in the trees. We neared the lookout point where many day hikers stopped to take photographs...as did I.
This lake is a true gem. Apparently glacial till is what gives it the surreal color. It is quite astonishing. We passed a couple of campsites on our way down to the shore, but were determined to find better ones. We stopped right at the edge of the lake around lunch time and set our camp in a prime location right next to the shore. It was nice, but busy. We saw at least eight day hikers who all stopped for lunch right next to our spot. Not cool. Camping is all about solitude in my opinion.
First campsite.
David quickly discovered that crossing the outlet of the lake was pretty easy. Across the river there were a few more campsites. Day hikers wouldn't find us here. We planned on moving the next day. That evening, we joined a few campers right up the trail from us for a night of s'mores, rum, and cheap whiskey. Turns out they are both seniors at UW and have a mutual friend with us...small world.
Not shy frogs...everywhere!
The next morning we packed up camp and headed across to the other shore. The water was cold but not unbearable. We made some freeze-dried mac & cheese for lunch. That stuff really isn't that bad! It's also light and cheap which is essential for backpacking. David actually decided to go for an afternoon swim. The thought crossed my mind, but I was sans bathing suit and there were too many day hikers across the way for skinny dipping ;)
Campsite #2. Solitude found.
Going for a swim.
We made the best of our evening with a nice pasta dinner and star gazing. This trip was a great follow up to the hellish experience we had at Deep Lake. As for bugs, there were only flies on this one which can be managed. Now I'm back to the grind. Stay tuned for more adventures and pictures using my new Pocket Wizards!
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