Chain and Doelle Lakes backpacking = strenuous = RT 25 miles and =-4700 gain

Hike south on the Pacific Crest Trail from Stevens Pass to the Icicle Creek Trail and up to a gathering of stunning alpine lakes beneath the rocky spires of Bulls Tooth. This hike involves quite a bit of uphill; then downhill. The final two miles into the Chain/Doelle Lakes valley is rather steep. This will be around 11 miles and 3600 gain - with a full pack - to the first of Chain Lakes. We are aiming for the middle lake as that is supposed to be gorgeous. There may still be some snow = be aware that I have found it a challenge to find up to date information on this hike as it is not one of the more popular ones. Overall distance and gain to all lakes is 4700. The return trip from campsite should be a bit more than 11 miles and 1600 gain. I cannot completely guarantee the return time, but we tend to be on the trail around 9 a.m. and hiking out. ***Weather Forecast: keeps shifting = if it worsens, the destination could change or it could be postponed. Currently, it is supposed to clear up mid morning Tuesday so we are planning on being on trail before noon. **Meeting place/time is a bit fluid. The Monroe Safeway if you park away from the main doors never seems to care about cars being there overnight, but I am open to other suggestions. Also, if more than two sign up, we would need another car and driver. Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous Length: 25.0 mi Elevation Gain: 4,700 ft High Point: 6,200 ft Land Manager: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Skykomish Ranger District (MBSNF) Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass Rescheduled from July 2-4 due to unsettled weather. This trip is weather dependent and if something unforeseen comes up in scheduling for me as in my husband gets a job meaning we need to do some things, I will postpone again. I should know that by July 3 or latest by Sunday July 7. Will update.