Trip report by Reuben Slasor
I started my hike to Annette lake at 7:15am. The weather was beautiful and a lot of snow had melted over the preceding week. I crossed a snow bridge near the end of the trail. Some people actually turned back and refused to cross the bridge. Most people just said a prayer and crossed. I did hear a large slide that sounded like rolling thunder in the distance on my way out, and could only hope nobody got injured.
Photo: Annette Lake, covered with snow and avalanche debris. (Reuben Slasor photo.)
I actually hiked to the other side of the lake for some great photos and fell over a dozen times on the frozen lake shore. A very large and destructive avalanche slid down the south end of the lake leaving a huge pile of broken trees. I have never seen mud on top of the ice in a wave pattern before. When I hiked around the lake it became obvious what had happened. The shock wave split the ice and dug huge slabs of ice into the opposite shore.
Well, this June the lake was still frozen over and the fishing was very difficult. The good news is the trail was easy to follow and you no longer need to worry about getting lost in the snow.
Reuben really knows the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and is looking for hiking partners who aren't afraid of a challenge. Reuben's web site is linked on the Bearings page.
Stats: 3.6 miles, 1400' elevation gain, high point 3600'. Getting there: Take I-90 to exit 47 and get on Road 55 on the south side of the freeway. Turn east and the trailhead is at the parking lot half a mile ahead.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.