Epic Hikes of the World ( PDFDrive )

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LAKE WALKS
KARERI LAKE CIRCUIT, INDIA
This accessible trek leads through Hindu villages to Kareri Lake and the ridges of
the Dhauladhar. The itinerary doesn’t cross any passes and there are no
demanding days, yet you’ll ascend relatively remote trails through magnificent
forests to savour the views across the Kangra Valley and glimpse the peaks of the
Himalaya. September through October is the ideal time to walk and you’ll need to
bring a tent, stove, cooking gear and enough food to last the whole trek. Start the
six daily stages in a taxi to Stowari then walk the 9 miles (15km) to Kareri village.
An intermediary hike from there to Harote on day two allows acclimatisation. On
the third day you’ll reach Kareri Lake by mid-morning, and thus have ample time to
ascend the alpine meadows beneath the Dhauladhar. From your campsite return to
Kareri village on day four, then climb to the village of Bal the next day, before
completing the ‘half circuit’ back to McLeod Ganj.
Start // Stowari
End // McLeod Ganj
Distance // 40 miles (65km)
ENCHANTMENT LAKES, WASHINGTON, USA
This is a gruelling climb up mountains in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, yet it pays off
in an otherworldly realm of granite slabs, jewel-like tarns and lofty spires. The going
is arduous – the viewless Snow Lake Trail demands strength and endurance as it
traverses a strand of steep lake basins partitioned by high granite walls. You’ll
appreciate a walking stick or trekking poles in several places. The clear waters of
Upper Snow Lake provide solace for weary hikers on the way up, who must later
summon courage for a perilous log crossing over a waterfall that spills from the
sheer-faced rim of Lake Viviane. This is the threshold to the sparkling Lower
Enchantments. To the south rises McClellan Peak (8363ft/2549m) and around the
corner from Sprite Lake is the wedge-like Prusik Peak. Open late July–October, the
trail should only be attempted by experienced backpackers.
Start/End // Snow Lake Trailhead
Distance // 20 miles (32.2km)