|
HIKE |
Melakwa Lake |
|
ROUTE |
Normal route |
|
DATE |
07/27/2006 |
|
ATTENDEES |
Dan R, with Chris M and Chris S and Mark. |
|
NOTES |
xxx |
PHOTOS
Photo credits: Don M.
TRAIL REPORT
Hello, TNAB'ers:
There are few TNAB hikes in which the peakbagging spirit is not invoked. So, for contrast, enter Melakwa Lake, a beautiful destination unto itself. How better to combat the recent heatwave than with a hike to a high lake?
Four of us met at Eastgate, including newbie Dan R, with Chris M and Chris S and myself rounding out the group. An hour later, we were at the Denny Creek trailhead, where Don and Lynda were waiting for us. It's time to go hiking!
The trip up the Denny Creek drainage is mostly in the shadow of Granite Mountain. The shade, and changing weather pattern, make it much cooler than the 80+ we left back at the Eastside. Early on, we meet many groups heading out, mostly family types with kids in tow.
After the main bridge, we basically have the trail to ourselves. The trail itself is in good condition, but a bit on the dusty side. Chris S gamely made his way up in sandals - that's TNAB spirit!
We trudge along, taking the many switchbacks up to Hemlock Pass. From there, it levels out as we shoot for the lake. After starting close to 6:10 PM, we arrive at Melakwa by 7:50 PM, with Bryant and Chair Peaks beckoning. Time to go swimming!
Well, at least SOME of us were ready to swim. I cannonballed off the big rock, straight into the chilly waters. WOW! Fortunately, there doesn't seem to be anyone else around to hear my screams. I tread water, feel my extremities go numb, when Chris S jumps in, too. Woo! Don, on the other hand, looks like a beekeeper in his full hiking garb and mosquito netting. Lynda takes the slow approach to the swim, tiptoeing in from shore, yet inevitably taking the plunge to total immersion.
WOO!
All six of us depart around 8:20 PM, as it seems the bugs finally found us. The swim keeps me cool for nearly an hour - very nice. We exit the trail by 10:00 PM, at least 30 minutes into our headlamps (sigh). Fortunately, Pyramid's seasonal brew awaits us. Big welcome to Dan R - just remember, you need two TNAB hikes to qualify as a vet! :) Great hike!
Next Hike: Defiance! Will we have time for a swim in Mason Lake?
Cheers,
-Mark