As my mind wanders towards this summer’s backpacking trips, I can’t help remember my last overnight trip this past October. I so wish the snow was a tad bit more melted out right now so I could visit these two hikes again before I depart for Spain, but come fall they will be on my list. I learned my lesson two years ago visiting Meadow Creek too early and lost some skin for it.
Why will I go back in the fall? The warm colors of the foliage are stunning on both of these hikes and wild blueberries are abundant. There were no bugs. Plus, I had them both to myself for the most part. Solitude!
Rock Mountain Via Rock Lake Trail
I was scouting a few last hikes and decided to stuff two into one weekend. I day hiked the Rock Lake Trail to Rock Mountain right off State Route 2 east of Stevens Pass, a stunning yet grueling climb with southern exposure but the views are totally worth it. I think there are something like 95 switchbacks to start you off?
Meadow Creek Trail To Pear Lake Overlook
Then I drive back over the pass and parked around dinner time to hike in on the Meadow Creek Trail, the last few miles in the dark. I woke up to frost on my tent but sitting above my favorite lake on the Pacific Crest Trail for breakfast the next morning was totally worth it. This is one of the few hikes I try to get out on every year, and not just because it takes me to my adopted section of the Pacific Crest Trail.
The Meadow Creek Trail makes the perfect one-nighter, and there are other lakes (Peach, Upper Fortune Ponds) to explore along with the summit of Fortune Mountain if you don’t mind a little off trail scramble. When asked if I have a favorite hike, this one is sure to be mentioned.
If you don’t want to wait until fall, both of these hikes should be accessible near the end of June, beginning of July, if you don’t mind a little lingering snow on slopes that don’t see much sun. The last switchbacks to the Pear Lake overlook could be tricky, as well as the ascent to the ridge below the summit of Rock Mountain. Check current conditions before you go!
For details about my experience on these hikes, click on the links:
Rock Mountain via Rock Lake Trail
Meadow Creek Trail to Fortune Ponds and Pear Lake Overlook 2018
What was your last backpacking trip of 2018? Have you had any noteworthy new ones for 2019 yet? Please share in the comments!
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