Paddy-Go-Easy Pass + Sprite Lake

Paddy-Go-Easy Pass sounds a lot more carefree than it actually is. Perched high in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the ascent starts immediately from the trailhead, after which you traverse multiple switchbacks through tall underbrush on a muddy trail. The trail "disappears" after about 1 mile, but it's likely just overgrown.

This isn't a popular trail, likely due to the popularity of neighboring trails to Robin and Tuck lakes. You're more likely to see animal prints than boot prints here. After the first couple of miles, the underbrush loosens its grip on the trail, and you start to see stunning views of Lake Talequah. At the top of the trail, you come over a saddle to reveal stunning views of The Cradle. Snow still lingers in this area through August, so to get to any of the peaks, you'll likely have to walk through snow. The trail to Sprite Lake is clear and very accessible. Once there, you can enjoy the 360-degree views and the clearest lake in the Cascades.

If you choose to go to any of the nearby peaks, beware of mines! There are multiple old covered mines in the area. Do not walk on or around these areas; they look like sunken funnels of gravel. There were no bugs here in July!