Field trip: Backpacking Building Blocks (B3) Course
Backpacking Building Blocks Student-Only Backpack - Golden Lakes Loop
This field trip will give B3 students the opportunity to try out gear and new skills on an easy overnight backpack with an experienced mentor. Priority registration given to Alina, Rojesh and Ram's group. Other B3 students can request Leader's permission to join after Apr 7.
Contacts
- Fri, Oct 3, 2025 — Sun, Oct 5, 2025
- Foothills Backpacking Committee
- Backpacking
- Adults
- Moderate/Strenuous
- Moderate
- Mileage: 24.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 4,200 ft
- 9 (8 capacity)
- Sun, Mar 30, 2025 at 8:00 AM
- Wed, Sep 24, 2025 at 5:00 PM
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
- iCal Google
Information about the trip will be sent out to participants a week before the trip.
Preference to Alina, Rojesh and Ram's group. Other B3 students can request Leader's permission to join after Apr 7.
This loop is one of the most stunning fall hikes in Washington, offering a mix of high passes, golden larches, and alpine lakes.
Day 1: Crater Creek Trailhead → Upper Eagle Lake
🏕️ Camp at Upper Eagle Lake
📏 Distance: ~6.3 miles
📈 Elevation Gain: ~2,350 ft
Day 2: Upper Eagle Lake → Angel’s Staircase → Cooney Lake
🏕️ Camp at Cooney Lake
📏 Distance: ~9 miles
📈 Elevation Gain: ~1,500 ft
Day 3: Cooney Lake → Crater Creek Trailhead
📏 Distance: ~8 miles
📉 Elevation Loss: ~2,500 ft
Final Notes:
✔️ Permits: A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.
✔️ Larch Crowds: We will start early to secure campsites—this is a popular loop!
Details will be provided to the participants before the trip by the email.
Required Equipment
The Ten Essentials, plus overnight gear as specified by the trip leader