Day Hike - Sourdough Gap & Naches Peak Loop

A very warm, but beautiful day exploring many areas along the Pacific Crest Trail in the vicinity of Chinook Pass. Arrived at Tipsoo Lake parking lot at 8:00 a.m. with plenty of mid-week parking. Started with a counter-clockwise loop around Tipsoo Lake to photograph early morning light with views of Yakima Peak and Mount Rainier reflecting in the lake. Followed the PCT up to Sourdough Gap with gorgeous views of Mount Adams, the Goat Rocks and a bit of Mount St Helens. Continued north a half mile to a viewpoint overlooking Crystal Lake. Returned to Sheep Lake for lunch. Continued to Chinook Pass, then hiked the Naches Peak Loop in a clockwise direction. Encountered many northbound PCT hikers most of the day. Some wildflowers were past their peak, but still many more to enjoy, especially purple asters. A great group of Mountaineers kept a good pace with enjoyable conversation.