Backpack - Spade & Venus Lakes

Meeting place and time will be sent to registered participants.

Day 1 we will hike a moderate 8.3 miles with 1,500 ft of gain to Waptus Lake where we will set up camp. Day 2, we will day hike to Spade and Venus Lakes, ascending a total of 3,500 ft in about 5 miles (to Venus Lake) - and back again to Waptus Lake camp. This will be our most strenuous day, but with great payoff as we'll visit two of the most remote lakes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Day 3 we will pack up camp and head the 8.3 miles back to the trailhead.

Pacing will be on the quicker side of 2 - 2.5 mph, depending on the terrain. When terrain permits, we will likely push pace a bit. Please keep this in mind if considering registering.

Day 2 will be a push - a 10+ mile out and back with a fairly strenuous climb to Spade Lake. Please be prepared to move at pace on harder terrain.

At this point in the season, we will likely encounter a bit of snow when we reach Spade and Venus Lakes. Participants should be prepared to pack micro-spikes. 

When requesting leader permission - please let me know your comfort level with faster paced hiking. While we will build in breaks during our hikes, I do prefer to push through as much as possible. Please keep this in mind, and let me know if this is something you are comfortable with.