Pages

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Deception Creeks Hike

In preparation of our Enchantments Hike in August we set out on a quick overnight backpack trip a few weekends ago. We had originally planned to take #1059 Deception Creek the full 5 miles to camp at the Creek junction. After stopping at the Skykomish Ranger Station, the Ranger talked us into doing a different hike instead due to the number of hikers that were already camping on the #1059 trail.

We started out at the #1059.1 trailhead (spur to Tonga Ridge) after driving some 14+ miles on a gravel road. There were about 4 other vehicles parked at this trailhead, but we didn't encounter anyone until we reached the junction with #1059 (Deception Creek Trail) - there were a couple of campers there just as the Ranger had . The #1059.1 spur is roughly 0.7 miles, that has an elevation drop of 700'. I knew on the way down that the way out the next morning was going to be grueling!!

We continued on the #1059 across Deception Creek and then  for about 3 miles of relatively light elevation gain to the #1059.2. There were multiple blow downs and creek crossings, but nothing too difficult to get over.
Near the junction of #1059.1 and #1059 - Deception Creek log crossing

Another Deception Creek crossing
The #1059.2 to Deception Lakes is a seemingly endless array of switchbacks and elevation gain before it meets up with the Pacific Crest Trail. I thought I was going to die! ;-) After a quick break, and another 1/2 mile or so and we were at the Lakes. We camped on the "island" between the Deception Lakes and Daisy Lake. Despite the warm daytime temperature, it was very cold at night and there were LOTS of bugs also.

Deception Lakes from the camp spot
Daisy Lake
Nighttime stars!