Goat Lake 2025

For what will probably end up being my last hike of the official summer season this year, I visited Goat Lake off the Mountain Loop highway, which is probably among my top five favorite hikes that I've ever been on. The bright sunshine along with the haze (presumably from wildfire smoke, including the relatively nearby Red Mountain fire) made photography challenging. I still had a great day, though - even though the trail is mostly forested, it still has a very majestic and open feel, and is very fun to hike (I always take the lower trail, so I can see the creek). And the lake view is spectacular.

First, a view of the lake with some hints of fall color in the distance. In this picture of the lake (as well as others you'll see), I went for a foliage foreground. The haze took away enough detail from the distant mountains that I needed to add some with other elements. F/14.

Next, a more classic view of the lake, again with a foliage foreground. I tried this image in a couple of different ways. I timed the one you see here for still water, with a reflection visible. I also tried this composition after a breeze had stirred up the water, making it look bluer and glittery. Ultimately, I prefer the reflection. With the haze, I needed all of the detail and definition I could get. F/16.

One more from the lake. Even though this one shows the sweep of the scenery a little more fully than the previous two, I don't think all of the elements come together quite as well. But this one is a good representation of how the view looks when you first come to the lake. F/16.

Now, some pictures from the trail. First, Elliot Creek (don't quote me on the spelling; I've seen it a couple different ways). I got lucky with the lighting; the sun was behind a hill at this point in time. I wouldn't have been able to expose this one properly in the sunshine. F/14, 3 seconds.

Lastly, a rare open view along the trail, just before the final climb to the lake. F/14.

All for now. It was nice to end summer 2025 on a high note. Here's to fall!