Esmeralda Basin & Fortune Creek Pass

Tacoma Explorers Youth Program backpacking trip on May 16-17. Weather held up and we had a great trip! This is a really nice hike for kids - lots to see, elevation gain is moderate, and good campsites are available about 2 miles from the trailhead. Numerous trails in the area give lots of opportunity to explore and day hike. We hiked up to the saddle near Fortune Creek Pass and also to the overview at Lake Anne. A little bit of patchy snow on the way up to the pass, should be gone within a week or two. The turn off to Lake Anne is still solid snow. The area is in full spring melt-out mode - lots of stream crossings, but none too difficult. Highly recommend this as a trip for kids, or anyone looking for a moderate hike in a beautiful area.