Backpack to Circle Lake, Alpine Lakes Wilderness

Start at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead and start to head up the long switchbacks. After running into the Trail Creek trail, keep right heading towards Cathedral Rock and Squaw Lake. There are a couple nice spots around Squaw Lake, about 2.5 miles in, to stop and have a snack. Now head around the lake and up a few more switchbacks. Soon you'll break into a nice alpine meadow with ponds right next to the trail.

Continuing to head onto the PCT and after going over the ridge you'll see a sign to the right for Peggy's Pond. Once at Peggy's Pond, about 3 miles from Squaw Lake, you can camp there or continue on to Circle Lake. Follow the small trails up behind the horseshoe shaped pond and then up the ridge to the left. Maneuvering across the side of the mountain and over the 3 or 4 crests and boulder fields, you'll follow sparse cairns through prime goat territory.

After about 2 more miles, the trail lets you out looking over the lake, nestled below Mt. Daniel. There are a few campsites around, but at the south end of the lake, there's a nice flat spot where we camped. Explore the alpine lake, enjoy the beautiful mountain views, or make yourself a well deserved cup of coffee!