Plan with
Confidence
Horses are not allowed beyond Lake #4.
Path Type
Point to Point
Begin on the Walness Lake Trail #924 (do not confuse with the Bear Paw Trail #923 that departs from the same parking area via crossing the creek). The trail switchbacks upward through the forest. The woods thin after about mile 3; the trail continues upward to the junction with the Goat Ridge Trail #921 about mile 5. The trail continues up across scree slopes to a saddle 0.8 miles later. Views from the saddle are quite spectacular down on Wanless Lake and nearby unnamed lakes and up to the surrounding peaks.
Continue across the saddle and down to four lakes at miles 6.2, 6.7, 7.1, and 7.2, respectively. Horses are forbidden beyond the fourth lake.
Arrive at the outlet of Wanless Lake - and spectacular views - a little over half a mile beyond the fourth lake.
All Clear
Trail was in good condition. Lots of blueberries and huckleberries. Shaded in forest for most of the initial elevation gain. A few mountain grouse spotted. I had a full overnight kit with packraft so it took me a while and was slow moving although the gain is relatively gradual due to the length of the switchbacks. Views pay above tree line and clear sailing into the lake valley. Not an easy hike. Took 5-6 hours from trailhead to Wanless campsites.
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