Royal Basin, Olympic National Park.
Getting the first views of Royal Basin.
Reaching snow after 5 miles.
A deer enjoying the first buds of spring.
Challenging trail conditions.
Going cross-country in Lower Royal Basin.
Camp above Royal Lake.
Mount Deception (7,789') overlooking Royal Basin.
Royal Basin offers plenty of lower angle slopes to mitigate wet-slide danger.
Royal Creek drainage.
Earned turns.
Heading down to Royal Lake.
A beautiful night setting in over Royal Lake.
Seattle lights over Royal Lake.
Navigating lower Royal Basin can be challenging without a map and GPS.
Snowmelt feeds the surrounding streams that accompany you on the hike out.