Family Backpack - Sheep Lake (Chinook Pass)

We will meet at the trailhead at 8 am.  Please be geared up and ready to begin no later than 8:30 am.  

A Northwest Forest Pass is required. 

Directions:

From Enumclaw, drive east on SR 410 for about 50 miles to Chinook Pass. Continue about 0.2 miles to Pacific Crest Trail parking lot, which is the second large parking lot on the left side of the road. The trailhead is on the east end of the parking lot behind the vault toilets.

From Naches, drive west on Highway 12 to the junction with SR 410. Turn onto SR 410, and drive about 45 miles to the Pacific Crest Trail parking lot, on the right side of the road about 0.2 miles from the top of the pass. If you get to the Tipsoo Lake parking lot, you have gone too far. The trailhead is on the east end of the parking lot behind the vault toilets.

From Packwood, drive east on Highway 12 to the junction with State Highway 123. Go north on State Highway 123 about 16 miles to the junction with SR 410. Turn right onto SR 410. Continue about 0.2 miles to Pacific Crest Trail trailhead parking lot, which is the second large parking lot on the left side of the road. The trailhead is on the east end of the parking lot behind the vault toilets.

**Please make sure that you sign up each individual in your party.**

We'll start our trip at the Sheep Lake trailhead in the Mt. Rainier area.  From there, we'll hike approximately 1.8 miles to Sheep Lake. Our first priority will be finding a campsite. This is a very popular destination, and the campsites fill early. 

Next, we'll set up camp.  Afterwards, there will be plenty of opportunities for fun!  This  is a great destination for children, especially if you let them swim, play in the meadows, or explore the small rock outcroppings.  (Make sure to bring safety swim gear  if needed.) 

The pace will be relaxed and slow in order to accommodate everyone. There will be plenty of opportunities to eat snacks and take photos along the way. If you are a faster hiker, I ask that you please stay with the group.

Goals for the trip:

1. Be Safe

2. Have Fun

3. Learn Something (Have a hiking/backpacking question? Just ask!)

My expectations for participants:

1.  Be Safe.  Parents, you are ultimately responsible for the safety of your child.  I expect adult participants to keep a close eye on their child/children at all times.  

2.  Stay with the group.

3. Have the required gear. (Missing something? Let me know. I may be able to help.)

4. Be kind and respectful of others.

5. Practice LTN Principles.  

6. Communication.  Please let me know if you need something, have a question or concern, or if you have a great idea you'd like to share.  I'm here to help!   

My style:

1. I tend to have a more casual leadership style. I enjoy getting to know participants and helping them reach their goals.

2. If I don't respond to your e-mail right away, it's because I'm out hiking/backpacking (with no signal), driving my children to their various activities, or thinking of the best way to respond. I will do my best to get back to you within a day or two.   

I hope to see you on the trail!