| This would be the first day that we would leave the trail for our cross
country hike to Marion Lake. We knew from previous reports that the descent to
Marion lake would be tricky to find through a steep, talus laden chute. We later
found that the proper spot to descend was not difficult to spot at all. Leaving Upper
State Lake, we quickly arrived at Horseshoe Lakes. They were very scenic in the
early morning light and Brian took the opportunity to take photos and fish for a little
while. I enjoyed relaxing by the lake on another perfect day, not a cloud in the
sky.
The trail ended at Horseshoe Lakes and we started our ascent of Windy Ridge which was
surprisingly easy. Close to the ridge we found a spectacular spot with a view up the
Goddard Creek Canyon. This would have been a great camp spot if water was available.
We crossed over Windy Ridge and descended to a pretty waterfall on the South Fork of
Cartridge Creek. This was a great place for lunch and resupply of water.
We then had to ascend to a pass just west of Marion Peak. I was able to get a
cell signal at this point, the only place I could make a call during our whole trip.
We stayed on the East slopes of Marion Peak trying not to loose too much elevation
as we made our way to another pass just east of Red Point.
When we crested the pass at Red Point, we got our first view of Marion Lake. It
was far below us but there was a pretty good "use trail" most of the way down
the scree and loose rocks. Our climb down the chute to the shores of the lake was
easier than we had expected and we made our way around to the opposite side of the lake to
make camp near the outlet. |
