Hike 6/14 Ross Lake Hike & Boat Ride
Saturday, June 14, 6:30 AM - 7:30 PM
8 miles, 1100 feet elevation gain.
Meet at Everett Station Park & Ride Lot --
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This is an exciting hike in the North Cascades with a fun twist. We'll hike from Ross Dam Trailhead down to the dam, walk across the dam, and continue on trail above the shore of Ross Lake for 6 miles to Big Beaver Camp. Then we walk out to the dock and get picked up by the water taxi (pictured) and speed our way back to the dam. The trail is in excellent condition, and is often very gentle, with most of the uphill coming in two sections. The scenery of the North Cascades here is absolutely stunning, and the wildflowers should be blooming also. Trip fee includes the water taxi fare. Note that about half the elevation gain comes at the day's end when you ascend from the lake to the trailhead on Highway 20.
Expected Conditions:
North Cascades National Park reports that the Ross Dam Trail is clear and in good condition all the way to Big Beaver Camp. We start at the trailhead on Highway 20 at about 2100 feet in elevation, and quickly descend to Ross Dam and the lakeshore at around 1600 feet. The trail then follows the western shore, usually about 200 to 400 feet above the lake, for several miles of forest hiking until a final descent to Big Beaver Camp on the lake. We're scheduled to be picked up by the water taxi around 4:00pm for the speedy ride back to the dam. Then we hike back up the hill (500' of elevation gain) to Highway 20.
Other Considerations:
Wear good traction hiking shoes or boots for this trail. Trekking poles will be helpful. Pack food and water in your pack and plan to have lunch out on the trail. There is water available at several spots along the trail, and I will bring my filter so you can refill when necessary. Bugs may be starting to come out, so bring the repellant. Note that the water taxi takes only 6 passengers at a time, so they will be making two trips to accommodate our group. Slower hikers should go back on the first run so they have extra time to make the hike up the hill to the trailhead.
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