92. Crypt Lake

 Distance: 17.4 km return

Elevation gain: 675m

On Monday, July 12, we eagerly got up early to catch the first boat to the trailhead of Crypt Lake. We had done the easy hikes yesterday so as not to be tired today. Although we had done this hike about 25 years ago with Elise, Nate, Melisa and Jen, I only remembered that it was good.

There were several gorgeous falls along the way.

interesting rocks and creeks,

many beautiful and plentiful butterflies, fritillaries and the largest - swallowtail

and a beautiful, well travelled, single lane trail with great views.

We saw many clumps of bear grass but no flower stalks until we were quite near the top and then were very happy to see a few. They bloom profusely every 7th year and this was not one of them.

 One thrill of the trail is how they built it so we could get to the lake. First, up a ladder,

then, through a long, low tunnel,

then with a chain for security along a narrowish ledge.

Finally, we arrived at the lake. Many of the hikers went in for a brief swim as the ice had been gone for a few weeks already.

What a refreshing dip and lots of time to dry off while we ate lunch on a comfortable log.

After a luxurious rest, we made our way back down, and were happy to find that a boat had come early and we didn't have to wait long. What a wonderful hike.