CHS 2 Hike - Ridge & Gravel Lakes

Our pace will be 2-2.2 mph for most of the ascent (faster earlier when it's cooler, closer to 2.4-2.5 on the way down). We'll get an early start to beat the worst of the heat as this route has exposed spots that can literally shimmer with heat waves in mid-summer.

Enjoy spectacular views of Red Mountain, Mt. Rainier, and 3 lakes: Ridge and Gravel with a lookout to Alaska Lake (and if you enjoy this, come back to do a graduation hike to Alaska Mountain). 

Bring a hand towel, wading shoes if you like, swimsuit for those wanting to dive in. We'll take hourly 5-minute breaks and enjoy lunch at Gravel Lake before returning the way we came.

Carry at least 3 liters of water; leader will carry a gallon and a filter as well as an insulated thermos of ice for personal cooling on the hottest parts of the trail. This time of year there won't be much running water until we reach the lakes at the halfway point. Bugs shouldn't be too bad  but updates from previous trip reports will be forthcoming in the Hello Hiker email. Bring bug spray and head netting if you are sensitive to bugs.

Get an early morning start on this Tuesday hike with Court. Meet at the Exit 54 (Snoqualmie Summit) trailhead for the PCT northbound at 7 a.m. We'll do introductions and start walking no later than 7:15 a.m. Hello Hiker will include carpool information.