Backpacking Necklace Valley

​  My brother and I did a backpacking adventure to the Necklace Valley, which is near Stevens Pass in Northern Washington state. Break ins are apparently common but the only thing that broke into my car was a mouse.
  The trail was mostly rocky, rooty, steep and very hot in the exposed areas.  Some sections were so brushy that it was difficult to see further than a few steps. Seems like the trail builders were against switchbacks. We camped at Jade Lake and hiked further up the valley over the next few days.  Good workouts, scrambling over rocks and boulders but worth it at the end of the day to enjoy my home made dehydrated dinners – chili with extra cheese was my favorite.
  With an inspiring environment, we made up a trail song – rules are only to be sung while on trail.
   We were on our way out the day the wildfire smoke got really bad and looked forward to burgers and hot showers.