CHS 2 Hike - Granite Lakes via Granite Creek

A fun hike with lots of stream crossings to count and a wonderful lunch break at Granite Lakes where we'll get a great echo. Work at your pace - there aren't a lot of junctions on this trip - and we'll regroup at the two main junctions. Great view of the river from the bridge over Granite Creek and with luck we'll still get some nice birdsong.

From the WTA site, a description of the trip: 

Pass a log bench rest point at a switchback 0.1 miles into the hike, followed by a second log bench just past a large erratic boulder 0.6 miles into the hike. Here you can take in views of the Middle Fork valley at the second bench. The trail continues to switchback steeply upward until reaching the junction with the Granite Creek Connector 1.3 miles into the journey, at 1680 feet of elevation.

At this point, the roar of Granite Creek becomes more dominant, and you can see the rapids rushing past you, down and to the left. The grade also becomes gentler, though the trail narrows and is more prone to water cover. At 1.6 miles, there is a short spur to the left offering an overlook view of the creek, and at 1.8 miles, cross the new bridge over Granite Creek, placed by helicopter in April 2015. Remnants of the former log bridge span can be seen in the waters below you. Now on the east bank of the creek, traverse eight to ten tributary creeks in the path of the trail. These crossings are not difficult, but the widest and deepest crossing at 2.4 miles may have ankle-deep waters. Waterproof boots and trekking poles will be helpful. Your payoff after the crossing is a 30-foot waterfall on the left.

Views of the flank of Mailbox open to the right at 2.8 miles from the trailhead. Continue your upward progress until reaching a second junction and fork in the trail, 3.5 miles from your starting point. You have reached 3070 feet of elevation, and the trail to Granite Lakes descends to your right, while the trail to Thompson Lake ascends to the left. Only one more stream crossing remains! >>

We’ll meet at the trailhead at 6:40 a.m. ready for introductions by 6:50.  I have a blue Mazda CX-5. There is no cell service beyond Mailbox Peak, so late notifications won't reach me until afterward. Please try to be prompt so we can start walking no later than 7:00.