Well I started out quite early...I try to beat the crowds. I started at the trail head at around 7:00 am with a beginning temperature of 48°F cloudy and a light drizzle and when I commenced my hike there was only 1 other truck in the parking lot. Shortly after beginning my hike I came across one guy already coming down (he must have started REALLY early.) Normally I do enjoy running on certain trails. I want to make it clear this trail is NOT conducive to such an activity. The trail starts out pretty easy enough. 1.7 miles into the hike the trail splits into two where you can either continue on another 2 miles to Lake Serene or venture off .5 miles to Bridal Veil Falls (very worth it, spectacular view of the falls.) This is where the trail becomes quite difficult. You gain 1400 feet in just 1.5 miles. The trail is quite rocky with lots of man made stairs and loads of switchbacks. This is where good sturdy hiking shoes/boots are a must. I toe-punched several large rocks especially as my legs got more and more tired. I've seen several people on this trail with running shoes, Vibram finger shoes, and even a few in sandals! A terrible plan if you ask me.
Once I reached the top almost exactly 2 hours after starting the hike (drenched in sweat from the climb) I found the Lake almost entirely frozen over and covered in snow. After sitting around for a few minutes eating some snacks I cooled off very quickly. The combination of being covered in sweat and it being around 41°F at the lake made it quite chilly. The lake is quite remarkable nestled amidst skying peaks. I spent a short time taking in the sights and taking a few pictures.
The hike down was much easier and quicker than coming up. A lot more crowded as well, in fact I came across 98 people making their way to Lake Serene. (Now you know why I enjoy going earlier to beat the crowds.) The sun started to make its appearance later in the morning. I also stopped to take a few pictures of some of the waterfalls you can see right from the trail. Made my way back to the trail parking lot full of cars at around 11:30.
(Here is a video of a confused wood pecker I saw on along the trail)
