Monday I left home just before 10:00 am and arrived at 11:57 am. I decided that was about three hours later than it should be! Lesson one start adventures by 9am. I had driven to the trailhead for Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls in WA state. I had underestimate the hiking time! Lesson two: Know average hike times before starting! Lesson three: Always keep my wife updated on my progress! I failed to let her know I didn't get back to my car until 7:40. The total hiking distance was 8.2 miles! I had thought it was closer to 4 miles for the round trip hike. I had almost finished my water by the time I reached the lake, I knew without more water 💧 I would be severely dehydrated! Despite being trained for search and rescue, and knowing the lake water should be filtered, I took a chance and filled my water bottle from the lake. I drank sparingly on my way to my car! Lesson four: Always take a water filter! It's important to stay hydrated!