Alpine Lakes Wilderness #25 - Surprise and Glacier Lakes

The wild fires have kept me away from the trails for 2 weeks. This week I tried something new by setting up an Agent in Chatgpt that takes into account recent reports, any fires in the area, and my history of hikes this summer to recommend a new hike. So this weekend I tried Surprise and Glacier Lakes based on this recommendation.

I was a bit reluctant at first because the hike was off Route 2 which felt like a bit of a drive. Up until I left this morning, I was still debating if I should go, but I was glad I did. The drive out was pleasant. It has been a long time since I've been up Route 2.

The hike itself follows a narrow path through the forest over several boardwalks. At points the vegegation crowded the trail so much I could barely see my feet. The trail has a lot of roots and rocks which for me would make it a poor trail run, but I saw at least one runner speeding up the trail past me. It wasn't very crowded and most importantly was completely smoke free.

I would say my first hike recommended by Chatgpt was a success.

If You Go

Distance: Approximately 10 miles round trip

Elevation Gain: About 2,700 feet

Difficulty: Moderate to moderately strenuous

Season: Late spring through fall, after snow has melted from the higher elevations.

Keep an eye out for Douglas squirrels, Pikas, Evening Grosbeaks, Stellars jays, and varied thrushes in the forest, while the lakes often reflect the surrounding peaks on calm mornings. As always in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, practice Leave No Trace principles so these beautiful lakes remain just as wild for the next visitor.