Lake 22

What a great day for a hike!  We went to Lake 22 on July 18th.  Not too hot, not too cold.  One thing about hiking is that the weather can change mid hike because of the elevation, so we always bring jackets just in case.  Beware, this post contains lots of pictures.

Because the trail is well used, some areas have exposed roots and are quite rocky.  This makes it hard for little feet, so I would stick with children over 7.  There are also some areas with water over the walkway so watch your step.

The trail stretches about 5 1/2 miles round trip and the elevation gain is 1300ft. on the way up, so there are some tough sections.  There was a bit of snow towards the top, but nothing unmanageable.

Nature was at its finest.  We even saw a chipmunk on the way.

The scenery was beautiful, with ancient  cedar trees and rushing waterfalls the entire way.

Once you get to the top, everything opens up and you see a lake that seems to make its own shade of bluish green.  When we were there the lake was still covered in slush.

The boys tried to break up the slush by throwing rocks at it.  I don't know about your kids, but mine could throw rocks in the water for hours (maybe a boy thing?). 

This hike is a must do.  The boys had a great time and the scenery is amazing! We will definitely do it again.  I would say the trail is hikeable most years June through October.  However this year June may have been a bit snowy due to the weather.

To get here drive past Granite Falls and follow the Mountain Loop Highway east for 11 miles to the Verlot Public Service Center. Proceed 2 more miles to the trailhead, on your right. You will need a wilderness pass so you can stop at the Verlot ranger station on the way. The trailhead parking lot does have potties.