Lake Serene

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HIKE: Lake Serene
(option for an addition 1.0 mile (roundtrip) and +500 ft gain to Bridal Veil Falls, 1.7 miles in)
MILEAGE: 7.2 miles roundtrip
ELEVATION GAIN: 2000 feet
SEASON: late Spring (wildflower season!!)
PARKING: pretty decent-sized parking lot, with additional parking along the road
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:
It is not likely you'll find solitude along this hike, unless hiking at obscure times, or maybe in the winter.
There are stairs, and stairs, and more stairs, on this hike!
A majority of the trail is shaded, but it is a workout, so while you may be warm, be mindful of the lack of sun, and chilly breezes for babies/kids not hiking!
MORE INFO: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/lake-serene


05.11.2019
The Squish is 8 weeks old
Hike #3

"I always forget how hard this hike is, until we do it again."

Aaron started out carrying The Squish, but at the first breastfeeding/diaper-changing break, we realized Aaron was sweating enough that it was soaking up The Squish's shirt as well.
This made for a cranky baby for several minutes (sorry other hikers!)
We changed clothes, fed and changed him, and went on our way.
I took on packmule duty from there, and the rest of the climb was so much harder.
I would be moving slow if I had to carry him the whole time. (Aaron doesn't seem as effected by the additional weight as me).

The break at Lake Serene was a really pleasant one.
There's a lot of room for everyone to spread out and sit/enjoy lunch without crowding each other.
This was the first time The Squish was awake on a hike!
He sat and observed, and enjoyed people-watching, and seeing his dad leave and come back multiple times.
Aaron tried to do some fishing.

We descended.
For me, when carrying The Squish, descending is always harder than ascending. (It's usually the opposite for me). I'm not sure if it's the extra weight, or not being able to see my feet.

This hike is always a favorite (and always harder than remembered) -- and it was very special to share with The Squish!

using a muslin blanket as a sunshade

hordes at the bottom of Bridal Veil Falls

Aaron carrying The Squish

VIEW

When you see this, you're practically there

Lake Serene

A nice place for lunch

LUNCH VIEW


The Squish relaxing...after...relaxing

On the way down

Farewell lake, farewell sun



Favorite tree

trail condition the first/last mile

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