Day Hike to Foggy Lake

Imagine hiking through a moss covered forest, crossing over 10 creeks and ending up at a vibrant crystal clear alpine lake. Don’t let the name Foggy Lake detour you from experiencing one of the most fascinating adventures the Pacific Northwest has to offer. On a clear summer day, there is no better place to set out for a journey other than the Mountain Loop Highway. Following the Sauk River, as it bends through the jagged rustic mountains, prepare yourself for a destination that is worth every step. After parking at the trailhead across the street, begin making your way down the flat one mile logging road. As you get the blood circulating and your muscles warmed up, you will later be grateful for this gentle prelude. The rushing river to your left offers a beautiful harmony while your make your way farther from the highway. Greeted with signage for Weeden Creek, follow the trail to the right. After about a half of a mile you will be introduced to your first obstacle of the day. Weeden Creek, nice to meet you. Test your balance and strength as you make your way across a few logs posing as a bridge. They are slippery, unstable and there is a good chance your feet will get wet. If they don’t get wet here, they will as you cross many more creeks in the near future. I have yet to make it to foggy lake with dry feet so it is imperative to bring extra socks (see packing list below.) You will soon forget your wet feet and the freezing creek water as you enter the enchanting forest. The switchbacks are steep. The terrain is rocky. And the fresh air is nothing but medicine for your mind, body and soul. Through the pines, you may catch a few sun rays, views of surrounding peaks and waterfalls in the distance. Meander up the trail where you will break out of the woods. Pause for a moment to stretch your legs before you continue on your journey filled with unobstructed mountain views, rushing waterfalls and wildflowers that come in every color. After a few more wet switchbacks you will come to what is known as Gothic Basin, where you will be surrounded by ridged peaks in every direction. Although a beautiful site, this is not the destination. Continue to the right for a less than formal path to Foggy Lake. The rocks are big and the scramble up to the first ridge will leave you a little winded. The lake is not over this ridge, or the next, or even the next. After every ridge and bend you will be thinking, it has got to be around this corner! And that’s when you see it. The red carpet. The finish line. The most magical place you have ever seen. Catch your breath as you make your way over to the huge flat boulder sitting in the center of the lake – perfect for your viewing and resting pleasure. With Gothic Peak to the left and Monte Cristo to the right, it is hard to decide which peak you like more, or perhaps is it their reflections staring back at you in the lake. Either way, snap a few pictures, enjoy a great lunch and celebrate your adventure. There is nothing better than accomplishing a 12 mile round trip hike to Foggy Lake. Every moment will fill your mind with memories that will last you a lifetime and have you eager to return. It is important that everyone has an exponential experience so please remember to pack out what you packed in and as always, have a safe hike back down to the flat one mile cool down after spending the day in paradise.