How do you say mosquito in Chinook language?

(the answer is... MELAKWA)
We hiked up to Melakwa Lake in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness which lies at 4600 ft elevation.  We can't get enough of this area and there is so much to see.

Let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start. All fun hikes start with a happy dog and a happy family.

We really wanted to be first on the trail at 6am, but we ran behind schedule and started at 7:45.  Friday night had been rough due to Troy's tooth ache and Roxy's barking. 

Getting started in the dark forest, we were a bit cold, but we knew it was a matter of minutes before we would be sweltering.

Here was our map, start at Denny Creek Trailhead, exit 47 off I-90 and hike 4.5 miles up to Melakwa Lake.  It is a 2300 ft climb from the trail head. Double click on photo for a closeup. 

I had always wanted to experience walking under I-90 here in this valley and was excited to finally be able to take this photo. 

No hike is complete without an injury. 

I know I took photos of leaves last week, but they just continue to amaze me. 

Throughout the hike, I just enjoy tiny glimpses of color.

Remember I love bridges and other unique aspects to a trail.

Who can pass up a photo of flowing or falling water?  Why does it have to be so beautiful, even after all these years and all these hikes?  It just puts me at peace, AHHHHHHHHHHH.  Nothing better in that moment than blue sky, lush green leaves and peaceful water.  This is Denny Creek.

The ever so popular Denny Creek slab with barely a trickle going across it.  I would love to see this in the winter to compare.  Troy and Alyssa had it all to themselves on this quiet early morning.  Double click here for the closeup. 

The beautiful morning model resting by the pool.

Keekwulee Falls at 9am, about 1.5 miles up the trail.

Here we head up Hemlock Pass through the narrow valley.

Looking back out through the valley, south toward I-90

Almost here, finally a sign after 4.5 miles.

We arrived at Lower Melakwa Lake. 

Always the brave one to dive in the COLD water. 

Roxy and Alyssa out on this rock playing in the middle of the lake. Double click on this photo for a closeup.

We hike over to Upper Melakwa Lake too. 

Here is the creek that connects the two lakes.  This view is standing at Upper looking down at the Lower.

Had to capture this.. who hikes in wooden flip flop shoes from the 70's and white jeans that had stains on the bum? Clearly, this lady's companion was properly dressed.

And we close this story, with a love <3 from Roxy's bum. The end.