Autumn patchwork quilt of beauty

By Brad Brisbine

The last Saturday in September, hiking partners Len Lamb, Josh Osburn, Larry and Jolene Campbell and I were on our way to an obscure, unnamed lake high in the White River Watershed (drains to Lake Wenatchee).

Suddenly changing zones at tree-line, we left deep green forest and entered parkland.

At 5,600 feet — and this close to the moist Cascade Crest— we enjoyed an autumn patchwork quilt of beauty.

Carpets of huckleberry give a double treat this time of year. Super tasty berries, and leaves that when backlit, turn from deep crimson to a riot of saturated reds. Orange sumac and mountain ash sing harmony.

High lakes are scarce in the White River Watershed. The adjacent canyons are likewise limited in the scattered gems. What a contrast to the south side of Highway 2, where the Alpine Lakes Wilderness boasts a whopping 700 lakes.

A 30-mile swath straddling the Cascade Crest from Snoqualmie Pass to the Canadian border provides a lifetime of pleasure. What a Good Life!