Alpine Lakes Traverse

Three lakes. One ridge. This is the trail that makes people sign up for a second hike.

First Lake is at kilometer 3.5 — a small cirque lake, cold enough to take your breath away if you swim. Most people stop here. That's fine. But the real trail keeps going.

The ridgewalk between First and Second Lake is the highlight. Exposed but not technical. Wildflower meadows in July and August. Second Lake is bigger, warmer, and has a beach of flat granite slabs perfect for lunch.

Third Lake requires a 200-meter descent off the ridge. Most groups skip it because they're tired. The ones who go get the place to themselves.

The return is on a different trail through forest. Easier on the knees. Total loop is 11.3 kilometers with 740 meters of gain — moderate, but long. Plan for 6 hours with breaks.