Jord's Hiking Blog: Egypt Lake

Dist: 37.2km Elev: 1790m Difficulty: 3/5

Day 1: 24.4km, 1425m Day 2: 12.8km, 365m

After a one-year hiatus, Byron and I resumed our annual backpacking tradition. Thanks to a last-minute cancellation, we were finally able to explore the Egypt Lake environs after multiple failed attempts. We had a great time, but due to limited visibility caused by wildfire smoke, I still have unfinished business with the big peaks in this area.

DAY ONE: Healy Pass - Egypt Lake - Scarab and Mummy Lakes - The Sphinx

A long and viewless ascent on the Healy Creek trail had us at Healy Pass after nearly two hours. Unfortunately, views were limited all around and we were teased by the faint silhouettes of massive peaks encircling the meadows. Thankfully, the area was brimming with colorful wildflowers to admire while we crested the pass and descended to camp.

We dropped our gear at Egypt Lake campground and set up camp after enjoying a fresh Parisian-style lunch (ham and swiss on French baguette), courtesy of Byron. Due to poor visibility, we then decided to explore the nearby lakes instead of tacking the original objective of Pharaoh Peak. We checked out Scarab lake, Scarab Falls, and eventually decided to scramble up Sugarloaf ("The Sphinx") with plenty of energy and daylight remaining. The scramble was fun, and we did manage some views despite the thick air. After a relaxed summit stay, we headed back to camp and enjoyed a hot meal and friendly conversation with other campers. We concluded the day with an extended stay and cold water foot-soak at nearby Egypt Lake, below the impressive north cliffs of The Sphinx.

Arriving in Healy Pass

Smoky views

Arriving at Egypt Lake campground

Scarab Lake

Scarab Falls drains into Egypt Lake below

Sphinx Pass before starting our ascent of The Sphinx

Summit views from atop The Sphinx

Egypt Lake, below The Sphinx

DAY TWO: Egypt Lake - Healy Pass

We returned the way we came in, back up to Healy Pass and out the forested trail towards the Sunshine trailhead. Nothing new to see here, as the smoke was even worse on day two. We had a great trip overall, but I will certainty be back to the Egypt Lake area to experience the fullness of its elusive beauty.