Directions: Drive I-90 to the Stampede Pass/Lake Kachess exit 62 12.5 miles east of Snoqualmie Pass. Turn north and drive 5 miles to the Lake Kachess CG, then turn left for 4 mi on Box Canyon Road #4930, then left for again for .2 mi to trailhead.
Trail Notes: Our hike to the Rampart Lakes began in a unique, but not good way. Upon arriving at the trail head we observed several cars with their windows smashed out and their insides on the outside of the vehicle. There were many people lingering around the area and we were told that the sheriff had been called and was on his way. Still we wondered if our car would be broken into while we were hiking. We weren't alone with our concerns - it seemed like everyone we spoke to had the same concerns and many were turning around to go elsewhere. We decided that the chances that the theives would return during the day, were low and headed out.
The hike to the Rampart Lakes shares much of the same trail as that described in the review of Alta Mtn. The first hour and half is spent working ones way up Hibox valley over undulating terrain. There aren't really any views to speak of durning this time. At about the one hour mark the terrain changes radically the the trail turns into a rutted, root filled hike. The going isn't tricky, but if you are carrying a backpack one should take care to get a good footing. About 1/2 hour thereafter you will make your way to Rachel Lake, which is a beutiful lake. On this day the weather was overcast, so the beutiful blues of the lake remained hidden.
The trail from Rachel lake leaves on the eastern side of the lake (right side). The trail isn't very well marked, but heading to the east on any trail will ultimately deliver one to the trail. For the next 15-20 minutes the going is fairly steep, though not as steep as it looks from Rachel lake. During this time there are considerable views to be had
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