Overnight at Lower Lena Lake

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars
Distance: ~6 miles Round Trip
Trailhead: 680 feet
Highpoint: 2005 feet
Elevation Gain: 1325 feet
Hike Difficulty Calculator Score: 15
Trail Notes:
Pass/Parking: Parking Pass required, available at the Hoodsport and Quilcene ranger stations.
Driving directions at bottom of post.

As always, click on the pictures for easier viewing.

Photos of this hike are located here.


With a forecasted high temperature in the low 70Fs and plenty of sun, we decided to turn the weekend trek into the first overnighter of the year. Lower Lena Lake was chosen as the destination for several reasons that included short, easy hike length with a weighted pack, all hikers were familiar with the area, ample supply of freshwater, and Kiwi was able to come along. Sort of a shake down camping event to check out the gear and refresh the outdoor skills for the coming summer season.

As the sun broke over the horizon, we (Ron, Cheryl, Kiwi, and myself) caught our first glimpse of the day that awaited us. We traveled over to the west side of the Hood Canal and wound our way up the Hamma Hamma River Road to the Lena Lake trailhead. After signing in at the National Forest registry, we donned our heavier than normal packs and hit the trail in high spirits.

Even before we came to the first switchback of the trail, Cheryl announced the first blossoming of the season. The third photo below shows a Trillium in bloom. Trilliums are often the first wildflower noticed by springtime hikers. Picking the flowers of the Trillium can seriously injure the plant. The three leaves below the flower are the plant's only food source and a picked Trillium may die or take many years to recover, which may have originated one of their commonly known names, that of the Seven Year Lily. For this reason in many areas such as Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia, it is illegal to pick trilliums.

The day's grand opening MmM Kiwi ready to go MMMmmMM Springing into season


In a short while, we began navigating the many switchbacks that make up approximately the first half mile of trail. I counted fourteen switchbacks, but don't take my word as I was too lazy to remove my shoes when I got past ten. MLOLM Carrying her own backpack, Kiwi was happy to run up and back, leading us along the trail. She does a good job as a guide, almost always keeping the group in sight. Occasionally I'll let her round a bend and then I will stop to see how long it takes her to notice my absence/silence. Within 3-5 seconds she'll come back to see whats up. She's a great trail companion. Rarely complains about my singing, doesn't mind exploring new routes as I get lost, and is always ready for a friendly belly rub. M:-)

Kiwi, outdoor wonder dogMmM Bridge at 2 miles MMmmmM Manageable trail conditions



This area has been hiked by people for many years. Scouts have used the trail numerous times during their outings. During the 1930s it was scouts and other hikers that packed in many of the fish (Brook trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout) to the alpine lakes (See Google image below) in this area. Over the years, plenty of time and effort has gone into creating the trail, building bridges, and stocking fish. Thank you people!!!

After the switchbacks, the trail continued to provide the our laden group with easy elevation gains. Fir and Cedar trees are the predominant species that accompany the hiker, but the occasional Madrone, Alder and Birch can be spotted. I believe there was a small stand of birch near our campsite if the mountain juice didn't cloud my memory. M;-) MEven though the trilliums were heralding the change of season, there was very little other plants in bloom at this elevation. We were able to spot several plants sprouting new growth and buds, but we need another month or two before the mountain flora becomes more visually distinctive.

Even though the winter season is being pushed out by the arriving spring, we still had to navigate around several blow downs that resulted from the heavier than normal snowfall this past year. Nothing too difficult but enough to bring some trail crews after the snow is all gone. I think Kiwi has the advantage over us for dealing with the blow downs. It's real easy for her to go under or use her four paw drive to clamber among the trunks and branches of fallen trees. Though her backpack did snag once or twice, she never complained. M:-)

Even with our loaded packs and comfortable pace, we came within site of the lake at a little over two hours. We had to look twice since it is still mostly covered with ice. Approximately 80% of the 55 acre lake was ice-covered with the northern end being open (See video and photos below).

Blowdown over trail MMmMmM Chapel RockMMMMMmmM North end of frozen Lena


We arrived at Chapel Rock in good spirits. Chapel Rock, a large outcropping of pillow lava that drops down about 75 feet towards the lake, provides many hikers a refreshing respite from their efforts. After trekking through the forest undergrowth and passing several gurgling streams, Chapel Rock provides a great picnic spot and splendid viewpoint. With the backpacks off for awhile and rejuvenated with sunshine, we tried to locate the plaque commemorating Camp Cleland, an old scouts camp from the 1930's. We were unsuccessful, so we'll have to save that for another trip.

A few minutes before Chapel Rock is the fork that begins the trail to Upper Lena Lake. It was not our intentions to continue on to Upper Lena, nevertheless those hearty hikers willing to take on another 3.5 miles and 2900 feet of elevation gain will discover a beautiful alpine lake among several mountain peaks, with Mount Bretherton to the south and Mount Lena to the north.

A few minutes past Chapel Rock begin the west side campsites of Lena Lake. It was here that we dropped the packs and hung our hats. No sooner did I relieve Kiwi of her burden did she take off for a good roll on the beach. Even with ice all around she bounded in for an exhilarating plunge in the clear, cold waters. Sometimes it can be good to have a double coat of fur. M:-)

Not content with just a cooling off and being free of her pack, Kiwi expressed her desire to explore the shore and we were glad to accompany her. Strolling along the bank we made our way to Lena Creek. This stream originates from Milk Lake and Upper Lena Lake, swelling larger as it receives snow melt from the permanent snow field, or glacier, south of Milk Lake along with contributing streams and run-offs. The water courses its way down from the higher elevations, smoothing the many boulders and rocks in its path while depositing smaller ones as it reaches Lower Lena Lake.

Lena Creek with bridge MMMCool, clear, and colorful


After scrambling over the cascading waters from the feeder stream, we retraced our steps and discovered other day hikers had come out to enjoy the wonderful, sunny spring day. Kiwi was able to play around with several furry four-legged retrievers that were out enjoying the day also. It was a great time, living in the moment with no worries and no pressures from the daily grind.

Lena Stream meets the lake MMEnjoying the moment


Returning to our campsite, we casually began our next demanding objective. Who can begin their afternoon siesta the quickest. MLOLM Answer the ringing phone? Run to the store for that missing item? But wait, if you order now you can receive at no extra cost... Nope not here. None of that crap out here in the wilderness. Our biggest challenge was remembering to breathe out so we could breath in more of the pure blue sky mountain air. M:-)M

Eventually we began collecting the deadwood that was lying around for our evening fire. Our tents were setup in no time. There was a nearby small run-off of snow melt that provided our freshwater needs. Pretty soon our stomachs were growling like a bear fresh out of hibernation. So we had our dinner and then started the fire as the sun continued its westward journey, leaving the forest shadows and sounds to accompany our meal.

Contented bellies, sleeping arrangements at the ready, there was nothing to do but start the fire and do more of nothing. MLOLM Telling tales, sharing hike adventures and even some misadventures, we wiled away the outdoor evening in our own leisurely way. Before long, I broke out Kiwi's backpack and removed what she carried for us on this hike. But you'll have to watch the video to know what it was. u;-)u Ron and I even reverted a little to our wild side with some fierce, primal yodeling. No dinosaurs answered our calls, though I have to say the ladies, Cheryl and Kiwi, looked at us in that classic manner that separates the sexes. Ahh.... good times. m:-)

Soon enough the sun was peaking over the mountains, lighting up Lena Lake and our campsite so we could break our fast. Checking the thermometer I saw it indicating about 31F. A little cool but no precipitation through the night made everything easily manageable. I'm really looking forward to when the huckleberries are in season so they can be added to my morning oatmeal. Yum!

With our packs a little lighter, and traveling downhill, we retraced our steps along the trail. Our pace was one hour less than when we hiked in. The Lena Lake trail is a pretty easy hike and rewarding hike. Easy or difficult, we all had a thoroughly enjoyable time.

Relaxing MMMMMMMMmMMHome away from home MMmReady for our return


Lessons Learned: I'm going to list some of the lessons I picked up from this hike instead of weaving them into the report to save myself time ( I type like a turtle). Excuse my shortcut. a:-)

1. Store food, eat food, and sleep without food in three different locations to avoid in visits by wild animals.

2. The one gallon size ziploc bags are useful for carrying items, allowing a see-through view of the contents and the bags are waterproof. They also double as trash bags.

3. Keep the dog from swimming in cold water unless the weather can dry the dog quickly. Kiwi is glad we brought her foul-weather suit.

4. If instant drinks (teas, cocoas, kool-aid, etc.) are consumed go with the pre-sweetened ones. Otherwise the sweetener is something else that must be packed in.

5. Clothes are recommended when making use of the sleeping bag. It doesn't matter what temperature the sleeping bag is rated, trying to sleep in just your birthday suit is not the most warming.

6. A headlamp is MUCH more useful than a flashlight around a dark campsite. The viewing perspective of your eyes is illuminated, both hands are free, and today's LED models last a long time while providing sufficient light.

7. Remember to boil water a few extra minutes to kill any bacteria or other microscopic critters that live in the wild waters of our beautiful outdoors.

8. Relocate all items that have a scent away from the tent. Again to avoid nighttime critters. Combine all those items with the food and hang them up on a bear line. This includes chapstick, hand cleaners, pet food, etc.

9. Don't forget toilet paper. Enough said. :-)

10. Ensure you practice how to make fire before relying on non-normal methods when in a survival situation. I tried two different methods (Sparks with petroleum impregnated cotton and magnesium shavings) where I was unsuccessful, most likely due to not being proficient. Recommend carrying 2 portable lighter in the emergency kit.


Full Route Topo MMMMmMMRoute Profile MMMMMMmMArea view via Google


Lena Lake MMMMMMMMMMBoth Lena Lakes


Video:


Driving Directions:
North of Hoodsport on US 101, turn west onto the Hamma Hamma River Road/Forest Road 25 (GPS N47 33.917 W123 01.038). Follow FR 25, which is paved all the way to the Lena Lake Trailhead parking area at approximately eight miles.