Sun, 21 July - The Mountains and Lakes around Hat and Lester Passes

Lots of ups and downs today over rocky mountain passes, many many lakes, meadows and hillsides covered in wildflowers, and majestic mountain views.  Hat pass thru Lester Pass was amazing and the views of 1000s lakes in the Pole creek basin was just like the PCT in the Sierras.  Got wet with several stream crossings the last few days and it felt good on the legs and feet. 

Met a couple that climbed Gannett two days ago.  Said they saw Balls and Sunshine, and Tattoo Joe about three hours ago. They also met Highlife climbing the mountain with just his tent peg for an ice ax. Big decision on if I attempt the climb tomorrow.  Camping just above Islands lake on the start of the Titcomb Basin /Knapsack Col Alternate route.  An elk almost ran into my tent at night.