. While I've been to the area many times over the years, there were a few spots I have not seen. Muir Lake was one of those. It is a nice little lake.
My next goal was to head up to lakes 4 & 5. The trail alternated between snow patches, mud, and some short dry sections. But the scenery is epic.
As the trail starts heading up away from lake 3 towards lakes 4 & 5, a steep patch of snow blocked the way. I decided I wasn't prepared to cross it, and started heading back. Lake 3 was mostly melted out, but still had some ice near its outlet.
Next planned stop was Long Lake. I followed Lake 3 to the meadow swamp between lakes 1 & 2
I then followed the New Army Pass trail towards Long Lake. By this time the snow patches were getting to me, both psychologically and physically!
I stopped for a rest break and turned around well shy of Long Lake. With views like this, my spirits were soon lifted again.
My next goal was South Fork and Cirque Lakes. Travel to South Fork Lakes was straightforward with minimal snow patch crossings.
Next I tried going to Cirque Lake, but as I neared the ridge between South Fork and Cirque lakes, I realized I was missing my hat! And the snow patches on the trail were getting tiresome again. Boots, knee-high stiff gaiters, and pants are desirable in such conditions. I quickly went back to where I took my rest break, found my hat right where I left it and went back to the South Fork Lakes outlet.
I headed down the use/old trail following the outlet stream.
From there back to my car. Even with the difficult conditions, I had a great visit. 5 stars, highly recommended!
