Lake Serene is a relatively low-elevation lake that sits at 2500' at the base of scenic Mt. Index. Bridal Veils falls flows from the north end of the lake. Since yesterday was sunny and the snow was reportedly melted off most of the trail I was hardly alone on the trail for more than a couple minutes at a time. The parking lot was nearly full when I arrived at 9:30 and overflowing down the road and into a lower lot when I returned at 1:30. It was a beautiful day and a good way to get myself and Jodee some exercise.
The stats: Beginning elevatation is 600', ending is 2500'. RT mileage is 7.2, added 1 mile bonus plus a little more elevation if you take the side trip to Bridal Veil Falls. The falls are gorgeous and the side trip is worth the effort but the main trail passes right by the falls. I'm glad I made the side trip.
When I returned there had been a serious accident further east on Hwy 2, which is not uncommon. This highway is nicknamed The Death Highway for good reason. In the future, if I'm short on time, as I was yesterday, I won't hike Hwy 2 because planning for traffic jams is essential on weekends. That's just an FYI.
Here are the pictures. Also, kudos to the Washington Trail Association and Boeing Alpine Club for all their hard work on the trail yesterday!