Lisa ventured out of King County to join us on the Peninsula for the first time and we met Brenda, Paul and Joanie in Hoodsport on our way to the trailhead.
Lena Lake trail is a very pretty trail - a big payback for the effort trail. There are some exceptional boulder areas and cascades and bridges and creeks and the lake itself along with lots of flora so you want your camera handy. With only 1300 feet of elevation in about 3 miles to the lake you can take time to take all the pictures you want.
We arrived at the lake and had a snack and Brenda, Paul and Joanie were kind enough to cut Lisa, Pam and I free so we could ramp up the pace and shoot for 5 miles out on the trail that continues into the Brothers Wilderness.
We stormed along and found some trail issues, but lots of work-arounds all marked with cairns (rocks piled to mark a trail). Some were hairier than others, but none kept us from continuing on. We found a large log across the trail right at 5 miles out so our mission was accomplished and we headed back.
Our totals became more like a regular hike for us at 10.06 miles and 3547 ft of elevation gain. It occurred to us that this is a great place for a group with varied goals and experience. It isn't a difficult trail to the lake so a beginning group could easily get there. The more experienced hikers looking for a little more pain can continue on to the Brothers Wilderness Trail and get more miles and elevation. You can go 7 miles out to the base of the Brothers Peak if you want. The group can meet back up and hike the last part together again.
Brenda and John treated us to a great late lunch at their place on Hoods' Canal and a few beers later we made our way back home. All in all a useful Saturday.
Be very well and more soon....
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