Chain Lakes loop hike

 We got home fairly late so no blog writing was done last night. When we left home yesterday morning it was very cloudy and we weren't sure we would get any views at all. We started at the Heather Meadows parking lot, near the visitor building. The skies were clearing by the time we began at 10 am. We got peek a boo views at the beginning as the clouds were rising from the valleys.

Bagley creek bridge.

We decided to walk up to Herman Saddle and then go down the Wild Goose trail this time. We've done this hike many times and have switched up the direction more than once. This was the second time with Scoutina.

The Blueberry bushes are beginning to show their autumn colors, but they are still loaded with ripe berries. A nice snack as we made our way up.

I'm not sure of the identification of the flowers that were growing along the creek. I found similar plants in my identification book. Could they possibly be: Marsh Marigold or White Water Buttercup?? If you know let me know, thanks.

As we neared the switchbacks at the top of the trail I looked back and captured this photo. If you enlarge the photo you'll see Shuksan's top is showing above the clouds.

We stopped at the top around noon for a lunch break and noticed a bit more of Shuksan showing.

As we ate Scoutina took advantage of a nice lay down. She drank her water and ate some of her kibble as well, and yes parts of our sandwiches etc. We can't resist treating her.

After lunch we made our way off the top towards the lakes. Our first view of Iceberg lake and a small pond visible just below where my husband is walking. Mt. Baker is hidden by clouds, but is usually an impressive view from here.

A nice swim for Scoutina in the small pond as we walked by.

Hayes lake

Iceberg lake. We saw two stand up paddle boarders enjoying the lake. On our way out they passed us with their boards in a nice pack. They looked heavy, but they said they had a good time on the lake.

Mazama lake

Making our way past the back side of Table mountain. We spied some goats lounging on a high up ledge.

Looking back at the trail we'd just come up.

We veered off trail near some rocks for a nice sit down rest and finally a view of Mt. Baker.

I think Scoutina approved of our rest spot and the views as well.

We made our way to the Artist point parking lot and found a bit of snow for Scoutina to roll in.

The Wild Goose trail takes off near the restrooms. We noticed they'd put in a new sign post.

Making our way down the less than a mile downhill of the Wild Goose trail.

Steep but very stable steps leading down the to Heather Meadows parkin lot.

Pearly Everlasting along the trail.

Looking down to where we will finish.

Just in time we got a fairly clear view of Shuksan.

The collection of heart rocks I saw along the trail.

A great day on the trail, lots of friendly folks. Smiles and hello's were abundant. 

Also, lots of pettings for Scoutina💓 She minded her manners most of the day, Yay!

Trail rating: Moderate/Hard

Total distance: 7.5 miles (we took some side trips for doggie swims, snow rolling and rest stops.

Total ascent: 1915 ascent