Grassi Lakes
The first thing to note about the hike up to Grassi Lakes is that there are two ways up.
Upper Grassi Lakes - the easier trail. A wide, well graveled path, gradual elevation, very little shade.
Grassi Lakes Trail - the harder trail. A narrow dirt trail, sometimes covered with uneven rocks that can be slick depending on time of year, occasional areas of steep elevation, but…great views.
Some people go up and down the easy way. We went up the harder way and then came down the easy way, which worked perfectly for us. Most of the pics from this post are from the way up Grassi Lakes Trail because it is definitely the more interesting of the two routes.
About 200 meters from the Parking Lot, the trail splits into two. The route on the right will be Upper Grassi Lakes (the easier trail). The left will lead to Grassi Lakes Trail (the harder trail).
The earlier portion of the hike begins with a lovely forest walk. We had plenty of shade and the occasional Western Wood Lily sighting.
There are a few rough hewn benches along the way and some interesting fallen logs that make for neat pictures.
Small waterfalls can be encountered here and there. They sometimes do trickle across the path, making mud and slippery stones, so watch your step.
As we got higher, we began to get really great views of the main waterfall. There is a great lookout point to view the waterfall and the valley below. Note, this is not accessible by the easy path.
The view overlooking Rundle Canal (also from the waterfall viewpoint).
Just past the waterfall is where the trail begins to get really steep and tricky.
There are some wooden rails along the way to grab onto, and interpretive signage for something to look at while taking a breather.
You know you’re almost at the falls when you cross over a small patch roaring water.
There are two little lakes that make up Grassi Lakes, both with calm stunning blue/green water.
Making our way around the second lake.
Look up! The rock formations around this place is a great spot for climbers.
Our last glimpse of Grassi Lakes before heading down the easy trail.