…are two things that I’m hoping don’t always go together,  This past weekend Catherine and I went for a jaunt on the edge of the Northern Cascades, in search of “Lake 22”.  Similar to several previous fall hikes, we knew we were in for a bit of wet weather, and this time we made the day more about exploring old growth than bee-lining for a high alpine ridge.

Before embarking we discovered a swollen Creek 22, right next to the road.

As we ascended through fantastical, and dripping, forests, I contemplated bringing mylar umbrellas on the next rainy hike, something that Ray Jardine considers essential.

The moderate ascent was enjoyable, although the trail was quickly becoming it’s own cascade in sections, but before too long, we had reached the lake.

Imagine a glassy surface with the towering shoulder of Mt. Pilchuck on the right, and bald steep faces all around.  Still, even on a rainy day, it was a hidden gem, and we hung around long enough to snack before turning around.

The photos were limited to quick shots from my phone, as we deemed it too risky to soak anything else.  We’ll see what next weekend brings!