In the morning, I was feeling a little better from being sick. I needed to get out into nature and decided to take a drive across North Cascades Highway (HWY20). It was a beautiful morning and just taking a drive would be worth it.
I decided that I’d take a look to see if any spaces were open in the Blue Lake parking lot. As I pulled in, someone else was pulling out. I pulled in, grabbed my daypack and some snacks.
Blue Lake is about 4 ½ miles round trip and an easy 600ft of gain.
The glorious golden larches are starting to turn and this is why we all came. Not only that, but the trail was full of fall color in yellows, reds, and golds
I got to the lake and found myself the perfect spot to make a cup of coffee and sit for awhile.
I’ve seen so many photos of this lake over the years and photos don’t do it justice. Huge wall of rock rises above the lake which is a crystal blue. It’s stillness holds a mirror to the green and gold trees.
We could hear and see the goats making their way down the steep slopes. I decided to go take a walk over to the tarn loop. It was the right choice
As I came around the counter clockwise start of the loop, I saw this goat looking at me as if saying:
“Excuse me, can I pass on the trail?”
I slipped past to let goat pass on the trail with a little anxiety. Mountain Goats are cool, but I’m not a big fan. I’ve had them be territorial and aggressive. I had one try to take the sweaty hat off my head. They are wild animals, who will defend their kids like any parent. All went smoothly and I came around a corner to find…
MORE GOATS
This group were so sweet, just munching on grasses and being cool goats. I am so lucky to see these special animals in such a gorgeous setting.
These are the days I will remember and treasure for the rest of my life. Fall is a precious time of year. Crisp air, golden larches, and the last few days before winter comes to the mountains.
