Tricouni Meadows via Chance Creek FSR
Led by my 12yr old son, followed by my 14yr son, and accompanied by my partner we headed to the meadows for a quick overnighter under the stars and Tricouni Peak this past weekend. The weather was as forecasted, ....fantastic, and the bugs were moderate. The temperature does drop significantly in the evenings, so if staying overnight, be prepared with layers.....
The Alpine flowers were in full bloom, and the blueberries looked to be a few weeks or a month away from ripening. This is the first time all four of us had been in the meadows.... and only the 2nd time back country camping without amenities. Everyone had a fabulous time, and the views were spectacular.
We accessed the area via spur roads climbing off of the Chance Creek FSR (watch for traffic and other recreationists trying to park at Lucille Lake at the bottom!) and found the roads to be in good condition.... up to a washout, where the brush encroaches the surface, and the road is rough and tight. A good clearance 4x4 has no problem with the conditions.... we were in a Tacoma (club cab, short box, 4x4 sport model) With the ability to navigate the road, we parked in the highest spot and eliminated the majority of the climb one would typically have to get into these areas. (that said, parking where the road starts to get rough would only add a couple more kms to the hike along the old road). We arrived at our parking location at 12ish and had some lunch with a pleasant view of Cloudburst Mountain to the south.
There is a well established foot trail leading from the western extent of the road where we parked.... and hikers are in the alpine meadows within minutes.... maybe <250m of hiking from the road! In just about an hour, we arrived at our planned camping location near the lake nestled under Tricouni Peak and had first pick of spots.... (three other small groups that we were aware of came afterwards).
I highly recommend this route for day trippers and for beginner back country enthusiasts.... you are not far from civilization and cell service is available in some surrounding locations, (ie the ridge to the north-east overlooking Road Creek and across to Mt. Brew). Be prepared with back country essentials, and remember you are likely to encounter some wildlife along the way.... but a relatively short climb can ease the discomfort or burden for someone just starting out.
Happy Trails!