Taylor Lake to Albert Lake – Ashland Hiking Group

Nine of us headed south to hike from Taylor Lake to Albert Lake. The rain had stopped and we were hoping for sunshine to enjoy the views from this new and very challenging hike. As we drove towards the trail head we saw sunshine on the ridge, so expectations were high. However, when we arrived at Taylor Lake, the fog was thick and cold.

We headed along the east side of the lake looking for the trail that would take us up the first of two very challenging scrambles of 500 feet. After a few errors finding the trail, we headed up but the trail seemed to evaporate. It was great to get to the top of the ridge, hoping for sunshine on the other side. Well, there was just more cold fog.

We headed down to Paynes Lake, along the PCT, so the trail was in excellent shape and views would have been outstanding, but for the fog. Then we headed up to Albert Lake, which turned out to be even a tougher rock scramble up a non-existent trail. Hoping for the best, we arrived at our lunch spot, hoping finally for some sunshine, but the fog was even thicker there.

So after a recovering type lunch, we headed down. Francie found an easier way down and the descent was uneventful. We arrived back at Taylor Lake to some clearing of the fog. The sunshine was a welcome sight and it helped lift our spirits for the ride home.

Thanks to all the hikers for having the tenacity to finish this hike.

Hike Leader: Keeley

Photos By: Bob, Francie, Keeley