Day Hike - Mildred Lakes

This is the second attempt to reach the lakes. On the first try we turned back for what I'm going to call "exigent circumstances." We'll reach the lakes this this time, no doubt. Our goal is the second lake, and hopefully a good view of some of the best rock climbing peaks in the Olympics.

Important: This hike requires you to cross a creek on a log.  This a LOG (*from Blammo!), not a log bridge, and there's no handrail. It's a large LOG, and it was easy to get up on it and cross in August when when the LOG was dry. What it's like now is TBD when we get there. If we can't use the LOG, we'll search for an alternate way across. Bring microspikes because they help provide traction on wet bark or wood.  

Mildred Lakes has an exaggerated reputation as a trail of tears. It's not nearly that bad, however, it is much more strenuous than the distance and elevation suggest. Add about 25% to allow for extra effort. The trail is steep and rugged in places, and you'll need to use your hands every now and then. Plan to spend a full day on the trail. There's snow on the ground and you MUST have boots and gaiters for this hike. No low-cut trail shoes!

Meet at the Mildred Lakes Trailhead at 08:30.  (Note: the USFS page says the area is closed, but it isn't, the page is just out of date.) A Forest pass parking permit is required.  The road is paved most of the way. The gravel road is pretty rough just after the pavement ends (shortly after the Lena Campground), but it gets better and it's passable for most cars.