Backpack - Upper Lena Lake

This is a strenuous but very rewarding trip to a gorgeous lake with amazing views of water and surrounding peaks.  But wait, there is more.  On the middle day we will take the boot-path up the ridge (more amazing views of the interior of the Olympics) and down to Scout Lake.  Then once back on the ridge we will follow it up to the top of Mount Lena (elev. 5,719')  for our trip climax (even better views). If interest and energy allow there will be an additional optional post-dinner hike to smaller Milk Lake. Day 3 we return to the TH.  Permits have been secured for five folks.  The fee is $18 per person.

This is a Leader's Permission Only Trip.  The day one section up to the Lake is 6.5 miles and over 4000' of gain.  This is steep and will be a challenge.  Participants need to have the current conditioning to ascend this 4000' on the first day with a full pack and then on the second day gain about 3,000', to Scout Lake and Mount Lena, with a lighter 'day pack'.   In requesting permission please answer all of the following questions and or concerns:

1) I understand that the first day I will need to hike up about 4,100' in 6.5 miles with a full pack.  I can do this. Yes or No?  Please list backpack trips where you have ascended over 4000' in one day with a full pack.  List the trips and dates and max. day elevation gain.  If you have not done 4000' in a day, what other factors would assure me you can do this challenge?

2)  This trip requires participants to be in excellent backpacking condition.  What have you been doing this Spring and Summer that demonstrates top conditioning?

3)  This trip required boot-path travel, likely some brushy trails, 'not too hard' off-trail travel, possibly some snow travel and water-crossings.  Do you have experience with these advanced skills and are you comfortable if and when we encounter them on this trip?

4)  There may be a lot of mosquitos--it is early July.  Will you be ready for this with a head-net and/or bug spray and choose a good attitude?

5)  Have you backpacked with this leader before?  If yes, when and where ?  If not, please provide the name of a Mountaineers Backpack Leader, that you have done a trip with, I can consult with about your appropriateness for this advanced trip.

Request permission ASAP.  Registration opens 6/25.  Hope you can join me for this challenging and sure to be memorable trip.  Thanks. Rob

Meet at the Lena Lakes TH mid-morning on the first day.  Exact time will be determine by the ferry schedule from Edmonds and/or Seattle.

Northwest Forest or America the Beautiful Pass required at TH

Getting There

From Hoodsport travel US 101 north for 14 miles. At milepost 318 turn left (west) onto Hamma Hamma River Road (Forest Road 25). Continue for 7.5 paved miles to the trailhead.