Lamarck lakes to Lamarck Col route-finding

There is a use trail that is very easy to follow from the Lamarck Lakes that leads up to the Col. You could even look at the Google Earth imagery and see outlines of the use trail. At one time it used to be a maintained trail.

The creek crossing near the lower lake can be tricky if early in the season; the other challenge is once you’re at the small tarn below the Col itself (easily seen on Google Earth images and on topos). There can be steep icy snow on the slope above the tarn and getting onto the snow slope itself can be a bit tricky as the talus below it can be unstable.

I’ve gone up to the Col twice and once over the Col into Darwin Canyon. Once over the Col you have to be careful to follow the use trail down to the lakes or you’ll end up having to scramble down some class 3/4 rock. One time we had a major lightning storm that hit as we were approaching the Col – we beat a hasty retreat back down to the Upper Lake where our tents were inundated by a flash flood.

Remember that you’ll have your full pack with all the food for the trip; take your time and try not to push too hard especially if you’re not acclimated. It might be wise to spend the first night at the trail head or at the lower lake.

I might have waypoints going all the way down to Darwin Bench from my last trip; I have to look for them.

It is a fantastic place to go – I was by myself and didn’t see a soul past the first lake. The masochist that I am, I chose to return via Alpine Col. The talus once over Alpine Col by Goethe Lake is the worst I’ve ever seen. I DON’T recommend it!

Thanks so much, very good to hear there is a visible use trail from the lakes to the col. I’ve been wanting to do this trip for years, excited to give it a shot. Depending how we’re feeling, spending the first night at Upper Lamarck and then going over the Col first thing on the second day could be a good choice. I’ve read it’s a slog… but worth it I’m sure! How long did it take you from the lakes to the col?