As a reward for a successful Barn Sale at St. Antony's last Friday and Saturday, Guy and I did a day hike to Royal Lake. It was a pretty ambitious hike - 15 miles and 3,000 feet elevation gain - but it turned out well. We were pretty tired by the end of the day.
Avalanche chute on Royal Creek
The weather was perfect - sunny and mild. It was warm while we were hiking on the way up, but in the afternoon we had a nice breeze as we hiked downhill.
Crossing Royal Creek
We left the house about 6:30 am and got to the trailhead by 8:15. We started hiking at 8:30 and got to Royal Lake at 2:00. Guy rested at the lake while I hiked into the upper meadow. I couldn't quite make it to the upper tarn because of time constraints.
The upper meadow. Royal Lake is surrounded by rocky peaks. It's an inspirational place, especially for a day hike.
Royal Lake
We started down at 3:00. A cool breeze was in our face as we trudged back to the car. We were beat.
Hiking in the afternoon shadows.
Despite the drought, there's still a good flow in the Dungeness River.
We got back to the trailhead at 6:30 and were home for Katy's shepherd's pie at 8:30. Another good day in Olympic National Park.
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