hiking mason lake (june 2017)

To welcome the arrival of our amazing summertime weather, we went on a family hike to Mason Lake (Ira Spring Trail). Located in the Snoqualmie area, this hike is about 6.5 miles round trip with a 2420 ft. elevation gain. A pretty good match for our family: definitely a challenge for Joseph, but good enough to break a sweat for Kevin and P&J (if I remember right they may have jogged it for a good part of the time, which likely helped with the intensity level;). 

The Washington Trails Association describes the hike this way ...

"Sun-drenched ridgelines, blooming trillium, and sparkling alpine waters define this fitting tribute to one of Washington’s greatest trail advocates. An ode to lifelong nature photographer and conservationist Ira Spring, this highly popular summer trail traverses steep pitches and open meadows en route to Mason Lake, a popular weekend camping destination in its own right" 

https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/ira-spring-memorial

I don't think we noticed any campers (maybe too early in the season), but it did seem to be a well-used trail; although, not overcrowded in this very early part of June. 

Getting geared up to hike!

Joseph may have started off a little tired:-).

I liked the variation of scenery on this trail, including this cool bridge/river/waterfall crossing pretty early on. 

Gotta take advantage of a nice spot of shade ...

Because about the second half of the trail is pretty much straight sunshine, as it opens up to the giant rock field. 

Can't beat an amazing day with Mt. Rainier popping out in the background. 

As well as all this other beautiful scenery!

And before too long we were up at the top relaxing in the sunshine and enjoying a beautiful view of the crisp lake. 

As it was early June, and not quite hot enough yet to brave the icy mountain water, we just enjoyed the lake from a nice spacious rock at the water's edge. 

It's possible we may have seen one or two crazy hikers out in the lake, but for the most part, everyone was keeping dry. 

After some of our group went off a ways to explore around the water, and others (definitely me) attempted a quick lakeside nap, we gathered everyone back together. 

And made sure we had a couple of good decent family pictures ...

... before heading back down the mountain. 

Good times! And many more hikes to come this summer, I'm sure!!!