Trip report by Reuben Slasor
This was a nice day hike on the east slopes of the cascades. I decided to make this hike to avoid the clouds and rain on the west slopes. Wow did I, it was sunny and warm and if it were not for a constant wind it would have been down right hot.
Photo: Wildflowers along the trail to Ingalls Lake.
The Parking lot was full at 8:00AM and I had to park on the side of the road. Obviously I was not the only person escaping the rain and clouds today. The trail was in good condition and snow free. After the first half mile the trail becomes open meadows and within another half mile it is all rock. There is an assortment of colored rocks and mountain flowers.
I am glad that I started this hike early before the sun and heat arrived. There is a view of Mt Rainier and Mt Adams from the top of the saddle as well as a massive view of Mt Stuart. I took 48 photos and ran out of film on this trip so as far as views go it was a winner. I also saw lots of animal life including a Marmot near Ingalls Lake. I don't know what kind he was, but this marmot was smaller than the Olympic Marmots and had Grey colored fur. I also stopped for a deer on the road and a pheasant.
The lake is at 3 miles 6300' and there are no trees at that altitude. The lake is a strange blue color and the wind was a little too much for me. I spent about one hour sitting on a smooth rock with a view of MT Stuart. Total time for me was 8:00AM - 2:00PM hiking and from Kirkland it is exactly a two hour drive. The hike is moderate to me and the switchbacks were slow and steady. I really loved the hike but it was a little crowded for me with around 50 other people taking the trail on Sunday.
Getting there: From SR970 east of Cle Elum, drive north on Teanaway River Road, which becomes Forest Service Road 9737 at 29 Pines Campground. Continue to the road's end.
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.