Gothic Basin

This hike was deceptively hard for the relatively short distance, but that was specifically with the weight of a backpacking pack. Once you get up to the basin it’s amazing. It’s a pretty sprawling area with rocky outcrops, lush grass, and little streams winding their way through. There’s also a pit toilet which was helpful lol. We went on a summer weekend so it definitely wasn’t wilderness but there was plenty of space to still find your own nice site. Definitely don’t recommend hammock camping, there are hardly any trees so you’re extremely limited with your options.

Attention all intrepid explorers, gather 'round and heed this tale of adventure and awe that begins at the Gothic Basin Trailhead. Listen well, for this is where your journey to the heights of wonder commences – a journey that demands your respect, your time, and your spirit of perseverance.

As the first light of dawn creeps over the horizon, cast your gaze upon the Gothic Basin Trailhead. It is not merely a starting point, but a gateway to the realm of the extraordinary. For those who dare to tread this path, the rewards are boundless, but heed this advice: start before the sun graces the sky with its warmth or prepare to make camp under the stars, for the road ahead is not one to be rushed.

The trail unfolds before you like a story waiting to be written – a story of effort, of challenge, and of triumph. The path is a ribbon of earth and stone that winds through the wilderness, beckoning you to follow its twists and turns as it ascends toward the heavens. But do not be fooled by its beauty, for this is no leisurely stroll. It's a journey that demands your determination, your strength, and your time.

With each step, as you feel your muscles flex and your breath quicken, remember that the ascent is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself. The trail weaves its way through a tapestry of forests and meadows, each turn revealing a new vista that hints at the majesty yet to come. Take your time, relish the journey, and allow the serenity of the wild to seep into your soul.

And then, as you near the summit, as the sun paints the sky with hues of gold and crimson, the reward for your efforts is unveiled. A vista that defies description stretches before you – a canvas of mountains and valleys, of lakes and meadows, a masterpiece that nature herself has crafted with care. It's a sight that words cannot capture, a moment that etches itself into your memory.

But remember, dear adventurers, that time is your ally. Give yourself the gift of savoring the view, of breathing in the untamed air, of feeling the rush of accomplishment coursing through your veins. Whether you begin before the sun or choose to spend a night under the starry canopy, allow yourself the luxury of experiencing the fullness of the journey you've undertaken.

So, with your boots laced and your heart alight with anticipation, embrace the Gothic Basin Trailhead as your starting line to adventure. Let the trail guide you, let the vistas inspire you, and let the rewards at the summit be a testament to your determination. This journey is not a race, but a symphony of moments that weave together to create a memory you'll carry with you long after the echoes of your footsteps have faded.

The Gothic Basin Trail to Foggy Lake at 10.8 miles (with some roaming around off-trail) and 3,200' elevation gain was the hardest hike I've ever done, but with a glorious payoff! (And maybe it was crazy hard bc I was recovering from COVID, plus carrying a very heavy pack.) But, damn, that was a hard hike! LOL. The first incline through the woods is BRUTAL, but after about 3.5 miles the trail opens up and you can start seeing the beautiful mountains, which distracts from the fact that you still have another 1,000+ feet to climb. In the woods alone on the hella steep incline, I got all up in my head about being alone and not having more hiking buds . . . . that plus it was nearly 90 degrees and I literally almost turned around and went home after a couple miles in . . . but fortunately I sucked it up and got in a good mental space because once out of the woods and onto the mountainside, it was simply glorious and you couldn't wipe the smile off my face. There are sections where my indoor bouldering practice actually helped because you are scrambling up boulders and loose rocks, which was new and fun. And, near the lake, the trail completely disappears and you're simply relying on your downloaded map to point you in the right direction through fields of stone, which was a little terrifying as the thought of being lost alone in the mountains is a tad bit frightening, but once I got used to the fact that I could glance at my phone to make sure I was headed in the right direction, I relaxed and enjoyed the rest of the hike to the lake. (I carry a backup battery and keep my phone in airplane mode to conserve battery.) Parking was easy even arriving at noon, as this is a challenging hike and it's about 1.5 hours away from Seattle so it's not busy. If you want a crazy hard workout that burns about 3K calories with a glorious reward at the end, I can certainly recommend the Gothic Basin Trail to Foggy Lake.