Other than an altitude sickness false alarm, our first night at Boulder Brook was (thankfully) uneventful. We had a leisurely breakfast and headed on a steady 5-mile hike to our next site: Glacier Gorge.

The path to the campsite itself was fairly easy. There were plenty of uphill and downhill but it was gradual. We made it to camp by lunch time, ate, setup, and then took a leisurely nap. The real fun began when we took a side trip to Black Lake.

Jenn, the friendly ranger who convinced us to alter our route, told us how lucky we were to get a last-minute cancellation at Glacier Gorge. The campsite was booked through September. It took a little bit of work to get there, but we quickly saw why the spot was so popular.

A few miles from Boulder Brook, we found some ragging rapids.
The rivers are always flowing, but late spring snow melts really bring the fury. Contrary to what Jason Tower tells you, there was flowing water everywhere and every day.
We found our way to Mill Lake. This is a popular destination for day hikers. After that, the crowds disappeared quickly.
We quickly learned why the day hikers turned around. Past Ribbon Falls (where Colin is standing), the trail was covered in snow. It's surreal to hike in 80 degree weather with snow on the ground.
Heavy snowfall + hot temperatures = treacherous hiking conditions. As we walked on snow, every 3-4 steps turned into a man-made posthole. This beauty (left) was created by yours truly. I was hip-deep in snow with my foot caught between 2 rocks. It took Jason and Colin about 10 minutes to dig me out. By the time I crawled out, it was more of a manhole. I was relieved to get out, but it would not be my last time in this hole. Nice views (right) make everything worthwhile.
After we made it to Black Lake, we decided to try a little off-trail excursion up a ridge. The bushwhacking was worthwhile considering the amazing view down the gorge.
Heading back to our campsite, we were surrounded by lots of flowing water. It's highly unusual to feel cold in 80 degree temperatures and to see a frozen lake (Black Lake).
Remember that man-size posthole? I fell in the same one again. Sometimes, there's nothing left to do except laugh at yourself.
Back at camp after our little side trip. Dinner tasted extra good that night. Jason and Colin shared a lightweight tent. The skies were clear, so I opted to sleep with only the bug bivy. The stars were magnificent.