Backpack to Soda Peak Lake

In preparation for some other backpacking trips in the near future, it's time to take the gear out and start carrying all that stuff somewhere. Soda Peak in the southern section of the Trapper Creek Wilderness is great for that. To get there, we will take the trail better known as Iron Mike. This trail starts on a dense forest above Mineral Springs that will shortly start climbing on a ridge that eventually opens up offering great views of the surrounding peaks. On our huffing and puffing, we will get to a view point at around 3370' with clear views of Mt Hood. The climb will continue towards the lake offering views of St Helens, Rainier, Adams and the Goat Rocks Wilderness just before we descend a bit to the a very peaceful and quite lake where we'll camp.

The hike to the lake is about 4 miles with a total elevation gain of about 2500'. The steepness of the trail makes it extreme under our rating system but the torture will last a bit over 3 hours. Once in the lake, and if you don't suffer from cold toes like I do, you can jump in the lake.

What to bring:
- Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat
- Food, stove
- Water filter
- Warm clothes and rain gear
- Headlamp
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
- Poles highly recommended
- Hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent!
- Gas money for the drivers

Dogs are ok on this event

PLEASE NOTE: The gateway parking structure does not allow overnight parking. I've left my car there overnight a couple of times with no problems. There's a parking lot behind the structure that allows overnight. I would recommend arranging carpool before so we don't have to leave cars at Gateway so please indicate in your RSVP if you can drive and where are you coming from.

BTW, Soda Peak lake is stuffed with Trout so if anybody has a permit and/or fishing gear and wants to bring it, we can have a "catch of the day" dinner