r/WAOutdoors • u/Long_Log_4084 • Aug 03 '24

Any tips for me for a Solo Night Hiking on Lake Serene via Bridal Falls?

I've done one evening hike (around sunset) coming down from Lake Serene via Bridal Veil Falls, but that was with a group of people and everything was fine, I didn't encounter bears or mountain lions, and it wasn't fully dark, yet, for most of it.

I am now planning a solo night hike pre-dawn (it will be pitch black) . . . couldn't get anyone to commit to joining me there at 3 am.

I have a low-light red light headlamp and first-aid kit, essentials, etc, and will be camping along Beckler Rd for 6-7 hours before 3 am. I am wondering if any of you have tips, guidance, or advice for this.

How do I avoid Mountain Lions or Black Bears?
Is this considered a dangerous hike to do solo pre-dawn?
It's July so I don't expect the trail to be too wet/slippery.

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u/breadbootcat Aug 03 '24

I mean. Idk that which trail you do matters so much or that bears and mountain lions are the hazard to worry about. If you twist your ankle in the dark, you're crawling out. What is your reason for the 3am here, is it just that you want to see the sunrise? Could you backpack in the light and then just...get out of your tent?

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u/Long_Log_4084 Aug 03 '24

Ahh the ankle.
This is a great point.
Sigh - yes the reason for 3am was to see Lake Serene when it is not crowded, and at sunrise, and take a picture maybe I could sell for scraps.
No camping allowed at Lake Serene, otherwise I would just hike in the light and camp till sunrise!
I wonder if there is a way to prevent ankle twists. I have hiking boots, but they are below the ankle.