2020-07-25 - Waptus Lake and Pete Lake Loop

• 38 miles, 5264ft elevation gain
• Elapsed time: 11 hours.
• Started at 4am
• Area: Alpine Lakes Wilderness

I parked my car at Salmon La Sac and then did a loop to Waptus Lake, following the PCT to Pete Lake and then back to the car.

The hike started interesting because I heard a cougar, but it sounded far away. And I guess roaring cougars don't bite?

The trail to Waptus Lake is in great shape and a pleasant hike. It's a little rocky here and there, so not great for running.

The river crossing close to the lake was okay. A hiking pole was handy, but a stable person could maybe do without.

Virtually all campsites were taken all Waptus Lake.

The PCT section is a little brushy here and there. Some sections are also a bit eroded, which could make it harder with a heavy pack. It's not in a great condition for the PCT, but otherwise an okay trail. The section down to Pete Lake has various blowdowns. A couple are kind of hard, in particular with a pack. I saw a WTA trail crew in Lemah Meadows though, so maybe this is being worked on.

There are some snowpatches next to the trail, but there is no snow to cross.