I hadn’t been to Royal Lake since a backpacking trip in July 2011. At the time we were unable to make it to the upper basin because of a late melting snow pack. I was excited to explore the upper basin on this trip as over the last few years I had become pretty familiar with the region from prior rides and hikes.

This year’s edition of Ride the Hurricane had two great changes from last year:

✅ Ride from BI to Deception Pass and back in one day.

I had been wanting to ride this event for a long time but the timing never seen to work out. Finally this year the dates aligned and I was able to ride it.

Enjoyable hike in perfect fall conditions. Started hiking around 10am with air temperature just above freezing so dress appropriately. The trail is in good condition but lacks any signage so be sure to follow the directions, particularly bearing to the right at the T. Arrived at the ridge around noon.

Wonderful day hike to Marmot Pass and to Buckhorn Mountain. The weather was nearly perfect, all in all a great day. The trail leading to Marmot Pass was in great shape and the meadow at the junction with the Tubal Cain trail never disappoints. I stopped for short lunch overlooking the meadow and mountains before summiting Buckhorn Mountain.