Basic Backpack - Lake George

11:00 am All will meet and greet at Whitakers Bunkhouse in Ashford, gear shift then caravan to the trailhead. There is limited cell service at the Westside Road to Gobblers Knob Fire Lookout.

**Carpooling is encouraged but not required. We will gear shift and take riders from Whitakers Bunkhouse. Please be prepared to chip in a few bucks if you are a rider.

***PARK PASS: All vehicles continuing to the park, must have an America the Beautiful pass or military or senior pass; you may be asked for your photo ID so have it handy.

I am a very laid back backpack leader and prefer this to be a fun and relaxing outing.

Day 1- This backpack starts as a shaded gravel uphill walk becoming a gradual hike along the Tahoma Creek on the Westside Road. Once reaching the trailhead, the trail heads gently to Lake George where we'll set-up camp, have a social dinner, and time to unwind.

Day 2- Having breakfast, we will take only a few items and the 10Es up to Gobblers Knob. Just beyond the trail becomes exposed with more switchbacks, elevation gains and fall colors. Fantastic views of Mt. St. Helens, Goat Lake below in the distance and eventually Rainier at the fire lookout, it is a beautiful and peaceful hike. When we reach the fire lookout, we will take a longer break for lunch and then head back to Lake George Camp to break camp. 

We should be back to the cars around 2 pm at the latest.

PLEASE NOTE: The limited water source this time of year and all participants will need to carry at least 2L of water and/or filter for Lake George.

***Participants should have had successfully day hiked a 2500' gain with at least 8-10 miles within the last few weeks prior to this trip.

****PREFERENCE TO BACKPACK STUDENTS AND THOSE WITH BADGE. Be prepared to respond with last 2 recent backpacks you have participated in with mileage and dates.

GEAR: Please read the Required Equipment Tab on the initial trip description page. There could be a few minor changes. It is recommended to have trekking poles, hat and gloves, layered clothing of moisture wicking fabric and all other backpacking supplies and equipment