Miners Ridge - Image lake

This multi-day backpack is best done in 3-5 days. The trail begins with an easy grade along the Suiattle River, gaining about 1,300 feet over 9 miles. It's a long warmup before the main event: an intense climb up Miner's Ridge. Much of the trail is through old-growth forest, which provides shelter from the summer heat. At 6.3 miles, cross Canyon Creek via a suspension bridge. Shortly after the bridge at 6.5 miles, reach an intersection with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Continue straight (left) for the PCT north. There are a couple of camping areas around the 8.5-mile mark -- a good place to rest before continuing your climb. At 9 miles, turn left onto Miner's Ridge Trail #795 and get ready to gain some 3,300 feet up to the ridge and lake.After a series of relentless switchbacks, reach a junction 12 miles from the trailhead. Stay left here, continuing up to another junction at 13.5 miles. Turn left to take the 0.4-mile side trip out to Miner's Ridge lookout. This active fire lookout is closed to the public but makes for a great photo opp with excellent views of Glacier Peak and the North Cascades. Retrace your steps 0.4 miles to the junction and continue along the Miner's Ridge Trail #795. Reach another junction at 14.6 miles and go either direction to loop around Image Lake. The view of Glacier Peak over Image Lake is spectacular, especially at sunset.You can spend a night or two at one of the lake's camping spots before returning the way you came. According to the Forest Service, "Backpackers can camp in an area just southeast of the lake. Camping and off-trail stock use within the lake basin is prohibited. No campfires allowed."