hiking lake ingalls: 40 years apart, same mountain, new knees

Last weekend, I finally made it to Lake Ingalls in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, a spot my dad raved about since his trip back in 1979. He still has this faded photo of himself standing by the lake, looking like he just conquered Everest. Fast forward to 2019, and there I was, huffing and puffing up the same rocky trail, but with hiking poles and a knee brace. The view at the top was breathtaking—crystal blue water, snowy peaks, and those stubborn mountain goats that refuse to move for anyone. But I couldn’t help but wonder: did my dad have it easier back then, or am I just getting old? He claims the trail was rougher in his day, but I swear these switchbacks are steeper now. And don’t get me started on the crowds—back in his photo, he’s the only soul in sight. When I got there, it felt like half of Seattle had the same idea. Has anyone else retraced a parent’s adventure and felt like the experience just doesn’t match up? Did you find the trail tougher, the view different, or maybe the whole vibe changed? I’m curious if it’s just nostalgia talking, or if these places really have changed over the years. And honestly, how do you deal with the disappointment when reality doesn’t quite live up to the old family stories? #LakeIngalls #FamilyAdventures #HikingOver50 #Travel