Olallie Lake, ALW

Today was a great June day to go hiking in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The weather could not have been better: It was partly cloudy and 65F degrees in the mountains. I started out on the trail at 9:00am and the parking lot was half full.

Photo: As you can see, the snow was eight feet deep and the lake was mostly frozen. (Reuben Slasor photo.)

The stream that I had to wade across the previous week was now open. After two miles there was still quite a bit of snow, but about one foot had melted that week. I lost the trail to Olallie lake but I found the stream exiting the lake and that was better than the trail this time of year.

I made it to the lake and it was beautiful. I also found a large number of trout at the inlet stream to the lake. I had my fishing pole but they were not interested in my flies or eggs.

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: via Trail 1039, 2 miles, 1220' elevation gain, high point 3780'. Getting there: Use either the trailhead for Talapus (exit 45, FR 9030, Trail 1039) or Olallie (exit 47, Denny Creek Rd.) Lakes.

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.

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