We arrive at Purple Lake. The ascent had been slow but as expected the mosquito problem had diminished with each step, and as we take a late lunch (really just a snack break) at the lake, there are essentially none around. As an extra bonus, the intermittent rain has also stopped, and has been replaced by some very hazy sunshine. A gentle, cool breeze is blowing which serves to dry off some of the rain and sweat. I believe that either Barry or Phil actually comments that it's a little chilly out.
On the shore of the lake we can see a couple of fly fishermen and from time to time a backpacker or two passes by on the trail. The lake itself is nice but rather small. There is no clue as to why it is called 'Purple Lake'. In fact, the only thing purple about it is Scott's broken toe, and that's about to leave, probably forever. Now it's back on the trail for four more miles to today's final destination, Duck Lake.