NATURE'S PLAYBOOK

Distance: 7 miles Elevation gain: 2,100 ft Time: 4-5 hours Difficulty: Hard This is one of the more popular trails in the park, especially in the fall, and because it’s relatively easy to access. The parking lot fills up quickly so arrive early, or be prepared to park along Route 20 and walk to the trailhead. You start at the rainy Lake Trailhead, we went counterclockwise for a more gradual ascent and better views of Black Peak. You’ll pass a meadow, bursting with wildflowers when in season, and eventually climb towards Heather Pass which looks down on Lake Ann—you can also opt for a short side quest and go down to the lake—before continuing along the rim and reaching Maple Pass. The trail is mostly exposed with little to no shade, and also very dry and dusty during the summer months. The descent goes throughthrooug dense forest with tight switchbacks. A Forest Service Pass is required for most trailheads, so make sure you’ve purchased one in advance or scan the QR code at the trailhead.