OKANOGAN NATIONAL FOREST, WA :: This hike was my first experience of the golden larch. The larch is a unique, deciduous conifer. Its needles turn bright yellow every Fall, and the event drives the fine people at NWHikers.net into a frenzy. Every other message seems to be about when and where to find them. Was the craze justified? I had to find out.
The loop trail to Maple Pass and around Lake Ann was mentioned several times as a prime viewing area for the captivating trees. It’s a long drive there and back from Edmonds, just under three hours each way. I hoped it would be worth it. Sure enough, I passed through many larch groves, but under the overcast skies, they weren’t very impressive. Fortunately, this changed as I made my way over Maple Pass and the clouds parted. The sun lit up the golden trees and the blue sky provided a beautiful, contrasting backdrop. This is the scene that people rightfully go nuts for. It was spectacular!
This hike would be wonderful most of the year. The 7.5 mile trail climbs 1800′ and crests a narrow ridge between Lake Ann and Rainy Lake. The splashes of autumn color around Rainy Lake was intense, reminding me of a bowl of Fruity Pebbles. Mmmm!
The loop trail to Maple Pass and around Lake Ann was mentioned several times as a prime viewing area for the captivating trees. It’s a long drive there and back from Edmonds, just under three hours each way. I hoped it would be worth it. Sure enough, I passed through many larch groves, but under the overcast skies, they weren’t very impressive. Fortunately, this changed as I made my way over Maple Pass and the clouds parted. The sun lit up the golden trees and the blue sky provided a beautiful, contrasting backdrop. This is the scene that people rightfully go nuts for. It was spectacular!
This hike would be wonderful most of the year. The 7.5 mile trail climbs 1800′ and crests a narrow ridge between Lake Ann and Rainy Lake. The splashes of autumn color around Rainy Lake was intense, reminding me of a bowl of Fruity Pebbles. Mmmm!
Wow – Simply breath-taking. What beautiful sceneary (sp?).
Thanks once again for sharing John.
Stunning John. Some of your best stuff I think. The colors and scenery really pops.
man, this really doesn’t help me adjust to my new settings. 🙂 Nice work.