Western Wanderlust Chronicles

Starting Fresh and Ready to Conquer

By the third day, we felt rejuvenated and in high spirits, ready to tackle the challenges and beauty of the trail ahead. Our journey took us from Death Canyon Shelf past Alaska Basin, up to Sunset Lake, over the formidable Hurricane Pass, down to Schoolroom Glacier, and finally into the Cascade South Fork Campground, where we were rewarded with stunning waterfalls.

Descending into Alaska Basin

Our morning began with stretching exercises, preparing for the miles ahead. We descended into the lush, green expanse of Alaska Basin, a stark contrast to the rocky landscapes we had traversed before. It was an ideal spot for a lunch break, where Bill took a bracing skinny dip in the icy lake. The Basin was a tranquil haven, surrounded by streams, marshes, and small lakes, perfect for a leisurely stroll across granite slabs.

Reaching Sunset Lake

After gaining about 500 feet of elevation, followed by a slight descent, we arrived at the serene Sunset Lake. Nestled in the backcountry of Alaska Basin, this picturesque lake provided a much-needed respite. We took a quick break, absorbing the tranquil beauty, before embarking on the challenging ascent to Hurricane Pass.

The Ascent to Hurricane Pass

The climb to Hurricane Pass was an exhilarating uphill slog, with the views improving at every turn. As we ascended, the landscape unfolded into breathtaking panoramas. Reaching the top of Hurricane Pass at 10,372 feet was a moment of triumph. The vistas from this vantage point were nothing short of spectacular, a reward for our perseverance.

Descending into Cascade Canyon

Descending into Cascade Canyon, we were greeted by our first sight of Schoolroom Glacier, a frozen turquoise jewel set among the rocks. Cascade Canyon, true to its name, presented us with a series of magnificent waterfalls in the South Fork. Some cascades were over 200 feet long, adding a dramatic flair to the already stunning scenery. The canyon offered a fresh perspective on the mountains, making us feel wonderfully small and insignificant in the grandeur of nature.

Ending the Day with Dinner and Stargazing

After a long day of hiking and marveling at the natural wonders, we were more than ready for dinner. The day’s adventures had worked up a hearty appetite. As the night fell, we enjoyed a session of stargazing, the clear mountain skies revealing a celestial spectacle. Reflecting on the day’s journey, from lush basins to towering passes and cascading waterfalls, we felt a deep connection to the majestic wilderness around us.