Trip Reports

Recently, we had a chance to return to the Olympic Peninsula to check out a popular hike that promised moderate elevation gain, old growth forests and the company of a river. The Lower South Fork Skokomish River Trail #873 managed to provide all this and more.

This popular hike has some of the best of the Olympics flora and fauna and is well worth a visit. Not surprisingly, the trail attracts hikers year-round as well as mountain bikers and equestrians, so expect a little company. The hike is approachable for hikers of every skill level, and while the initial 300ft hurdle might be a challenging for some youngsters, most of the route is a decent trek for kids. When we visited, large winter blowdowns made the hike a little more difficult, but we anticipate much of this will be cleared as summer gets into full swing.

Check out the full report here:

http://www.hikingwithmybrot[…]-skokomish-river-trail.html

Jer

A friend and I hiked up to Pyramid Peak to view the annular eclipse. The elevation rises quickly, but it's manageable at a reasonable pace. The washout section on the other hand, as others have stated, is not to be under-estimated. A fall would mean significant injury. The path across is washout is presently in very rough shape. The path is non-existent in some sections; no trail width to speak of, just steep soft sand. Grabbing on to rocks built into the side of the hill becomes necessary to hop over these sections. During our crossing it was rain/misting, making matters worse. After reaching 3/4 the way across (just like the user before me described), sizable rocks began to fall from above and we opted to cross the washout down lower. We ended bushwhacking down the side of the washout, crossing near the bottom and bushwhacking our way back up. Very steep, very tiring, but worth not risking life and limb over a quick crossing at the top. Same ordeal on our way back too. The washout path needs to be re-graded before it's reasonably safe to cross.

This is a hike for the bird lovers! Birdsong everywhere, bluebirds were the highlight for me, but the lark song was beautiful all the way up. We stayed overnight in Grand Coulee, and did this hike in the AM. It was cloudy and cool, but didn't rain until we started down. There is one 'spiderman' section halfway up that would make this unsuitable for small children. Older ones will love it! Wander around at the top and look down on the hawks and swallows hunting along the cliff face. We walked the east side of the loop for a long ways, saw the deer herd and a few marmots.

Yesterday I took my friend out hiking for her birthday. There were no big views due to the rain and fog, but the trail itself was very pretty in these conditions. There were no other cars on the road up to the lower trailhead, but we did see two white-tailed deer.

There are two options to the upper trailhead: the first is the obvious wide road trail that the WTA page describes. You follow it to the "Upper Mt Ellinor Trail" sign, where you turn left. From there to the upper trailhead is an easy walk. We saw ptarmigans and bunnies and enjoyed the foggy views of the surrounding forest. The trail from the upper trailhead to the top is pretty slippery due to packed snow/ice. My friend's waterproof clothing wasn't very waterproof, so we turned around before reaching the summit. I'm looking forward to returning another day.

The second option is a 1.9 mile trail through the forest. Only the top third or so is snow-covered. At the top, there is a sign for it just above the upper trailhead. It opens out immediately above the lower trailhead, right as the trailhead joins with the road trail.

Bring: poles, gaiters, ice axe for glissade from summit.

After deciding that Camp Muir was too rainy and fogged out, we searched for a good lowland hike on this rainy Sunday.

Driving up Westside road for a few miles, we came to the gate indicating the start of the washed-out area. We hiked for about twenty minutes up the road until we came to the Tahoma Creek trailhead on the right-hand side. A sign indicated that the trail was not maintained, but we found it extremely easy to follow. Cairns indicated the easiest way through the rocks in the drainage area, and the trail portions through the woods were well trodden.

We decided to make the suspension bridge our final destination, stopping to take a few photos and spit off the side. An easy 2.2 miles back down the valley and we hit the road again, hiking out to the car.

This is a great leg stretcher on the drive through Central WA, and a great hike for kids! I wish we would have known about this when we were doing the 'over the river and thru the woods' when our children were small. The views are great and the caves interesting. It looks like there has been some vandalism on the wall and we did not see any petroglyphs until the last cave. If I say where the wrong person might read this report and that one would be gone, too. Look in a not so obvious place.

A wildflower wander! There are lots of flowers iin bloom, some of which I was able to ID with my book. We walked to the 2nd ridge and back and did not do the loop, as we had a full agenda on our mini road trip. This is well worth seeking out this time of year. It was cloudy and showery, great for desert walks and picture. There is no defined trail except the old jeep track, I wish it were more defined, mostly to keep the flowers from getting trampled. I used Turner & Gustafson for ID.

Trail is in reasonably good shape. A few tiny patches of snow on the upper parts. Campsites and north shore of lake are snow-free. Lots of campers this weekend, some generously leaving behind their cans, food scraps, and underwear. Thanks!

Nice view of Baring, which I only got up as far as the notch at 5500' where some very steep, soft snow, rain, and lack of an ice axe and gloves turned me around.

Another sunny Saturday and I felt like heading up for a view hike. I wanted a fairly short drive and settled on an old favorite, Mt. Baldy. Located on the ridge to the west of Lake Cle Elum it provides great 360 degree views with no higher peaks nearby. It is also a very seldom hiked trail especially when there is still snow. I took the first Easton exit coming from the west. A left over the freeway, another left, and a right on the Kachess Dam Road. It immediately turns to dirt. .80 miles to the still officially unsigned (small yellow paper sign on a tree) right turn then .60 miles to the trailhead at the end. As expected there were no cars when I arrived. I was on the go right about 9:00 am.

Wildflowers started immediately. Some trillium and calypso orchids. I spent some time photographing the calypsos as I doubted I'd see more. Wrong. This trail is littered with blooming calypso orchids right now. Walking a quarter mile up the trail will let you see a hundred or more. I've never seen so many on one trail before. That slowed me down a number of times. The trail to Baldy is only 8 miles round trip so I had plenty of time to stop for photos. It is one really steep trail, especially the last mile to the top of the ridge. Silver Creek is really roaring right now with spring snow melt. The bridge near the dam/waterfall shakes from the power of the water. It was freezing cold along the creek but warmed up fast as I gained elevation.

The first few miles have a wide assortment of blooming wildflowers. Not a profusion but pockets of color in spots all along the trail. In addition to all the trillium and calypso orchids I saw vanilla leaf, false Solomons seal, Indian paintbrush, violets, spring beauty, glacier lilies, some chocolate lilies about to open, and more. Much more color than I was expecting. I did not know where the snow would begin so I brought microspikes and and ice axe. The first proved helpful though not absolutely necessary and the latter stayed on my pack. There are two big logs down that you can crawl under and a couple more that you can go around. The trail is in very good shape.

After the very short road section the trail goes up in an old clear cut. Some views out here. More wildflowers too. Back in forest the way switchbacks up to the junction with the Easton Ridge Trail. The junction is on a flat ridge. I went left on the Domerie Divide Trail. The route is flat for a ways. The first small snow patches were in the forest here. I stopped at the lookout spot. Views down to the waterfall on Silver Creek and up to the ridge where the old beacon is. Below is Lake Kachess. Behind it is Amabilis Mountain. I could now see Mt. Rainier. Not a cloud around it. The trail remains flat a short way then begins to climb. I lost the trail at the first bigger snow patch but found it again quickly. After that it was snow free once again.

At the open slope where I had seen many chocolate lilies on an earlier trip I stopped to scan the hillside. The brown lilies are very hard to spot. I'm sure I had walked by them on other visits. I was about to give up when I found one then two and three pods just about to open up. Should be just a day or two. After 3550' of gain on the Old Mt. Si trail just a day and a half earlier my legs really felt the steep section. It used to be a motorcycle trail and in places just goes right up the fall line. "Fall line" is accurate as I have fallen on my rear a few times coming down it with some loose gravel on the steep slope. Without any snow the going was still pretty easy though slow.

At 4500' a big snow patch covered the trail. Soon after it was buried by up to several feet of snow. The snow was rock hard and I almost stopped to put on the microspikes. Since the ridge top is at 4900' I chose to just keep going. Soon I reached a familiar open spot just a few hundred feet below the ridge. Mt. Baldy was in sight from there. Now in the open the snow was much softer and easier to kick in solid steps. At the ridge top trail junction I would guess there is still 4-6 feet of snow. A left turn goes to Thomas Mountain. I've done that one once on snow and once on dirt trail. Baldy I have done much more often. The ridge to Baldy is one mile with a number of ups and downs. For the most part you can just stay on the ridge top.

I chose Baldy and immediately dropped down. The snow is well enough consolidated to keep you from post holing much. In some places the wind blown snow makes for 6-10 foot near vertical drops. None proved to be a problem to get up or down. There is one spot where I had to descend on thin icy snow to get around a rocky point. It should be bare in less than a week. I put on microspikes to climb steep hard snow back to the ridge top. On the return it looked like one could scramble right over the rocky point and avoid the ice. That was about it for difficulties. Otherwise, it was just a slog through trees and in the open along the ridge. As I neared the summit of Baldy I stopped to remove my microspikes and heard voices. To my surprise there were two folks and two dogs on top. They came up the other end of the ridge via Domerie Peak.

We had a nice chat while I ate lunch. Some clouds were drifting in but it was plenty clear to see from Hinman and Daniel to the north through Mt. Stuart and the Teanaway peaks to Mt. Rainier. Between the bright sun and a cool breeze it was pleasant on top. I arrived at 12:20 and stayed until 1:00 pm. Below the summit I donned microspikes for the whole way back on snow. Not necessary but helpful on the icy spots. One benefit of hiking above a major interstate highway and several small towns is that I had a phone signal for the entire trip. A nice safety feature on a solo snow scramble. The trip back along the ridge was uneventful.

Down below the ridge in forest I left no tracks in the hard snow coming up so I just headed straight down a ways then let my GPS lead me back to the bare trail. I could have hugged the ridge but this was easier as it allowed me to microspike down the harder snow avoiding brush and downed trees. I was soon back on the trail. When I reached the flat ridge and overlook point I was surprised again to find two hikers heading up. Four people is the most I have ever seen on this trail. Still not exactly a crowd. I reached the trailhead at 3:50 to find five other cars. Silver Creek seems to have been more popular this day. The west bound ramp is closed for repaving so I had to go east before I could head west. Traffic was no problem and I was home by 5:30 pm.

This remains a favorite hike. Good forest wildflowers down low in spring and desert flowers on the ridge after the snow melts. No bitterroot, balsamroot,or scarlet gilia just yet but great flowers in the first few miles. The ridge walk is fun in summer but altogether different on 5 feet of snow. Fun both ways. My GPS logged almost exactly 8 miles round trip with 3800' of gain. I think the elevation is a little high. I'm logging 3600' of gain. Still a great workout with views as well. A great way to spend a sunny day in May.

I have posted 40 annotated photos on my website located at: http://www.hikingnorthwest.com. Go to "Trips - 2012" on the left margin.

The East Bank Trail is a great early season hike to get some good miles in. I continued on with the Desolation Peak Trail to see where the snow level was.

The only real issue along the way is blow-downs. From the TH to Devil's Junction Camps there are 60+ downed trees. A few of those can be tricky to get over/under, but none should limit anyone's access. From Devil's Junction Camps to Lightning Cr Camps there are 80+ downed trees, of which most are spindly new growth. Again, none pose any real issue. The Desolation Peak Trail has an additional 20-30 downed trees.

The trail could be brushed out in places, but the annoyance is minimal.

As far as fording creeks goes, the only ford at this time is Roland Cr. It's a very simple ford (there are downed trees as well, if comfortable). There are several other creeks that may require fording depending on temps, recent rainfall, and of course time of day. But none will be difficult.

On Desolation Peak patchy snow started at ~3700' and became solid at ~4100'. Continuing on there were spots where the trail was snow free, but then quickly reverted back to being snow covered.

Lastly, I did pick up 6 ticks on this outing. 4 just south of Devil's Cr and then 2 more on the first 2 miles of the Desolation Trail.

Cheers!
S-H-A-L

Just a couple weeks ago, the dirt road to the Welcome Pass trailhead was still holding snow, making it impassable, even in 4WD. But it's all gone now.

The summer trail started off pleasantly enough today, but things changed quickly. Not far up the trail, lots of deadfall / blowdowns slowed our progress. It was like a war zone in some sections. We did some trail maintenance, but most of it would require a chainsaw.

At one point on our ascent, I noticed a small dead tree right in the middle of the trail. It was really odd, and I even mentioned how strange it was to my wife, but we continued up the trail without much thought. A few minutes later, I thought more about it, and I decided to check it out on the way back down.

We encountered the first patches of snow at about 3,700 feet. Some of it was avoidable. But by 4,000 feet, snow pretty much covered the entire summer trail. And that happens to be where the trail becomes steeper than hell. This is where we donned our crampons ... and we were glad we brought them. I also switched from poles to an ice axe.

Most of the snow-covered ridge up to Welcome Pass is rather steep. Much of it ranges between 30 and 40 degrees, but for at least 50 feet or so, we ended up climbing a 43-degree slope. So glad I brought my axe, as I wouldn't have attempted the slope without it.

The snow, by the way, was pretty consolidated. Great for cramponing.

With the rain picking up and the views diminishing to nothing, we decided to turn around at 4,800 feet.

On our descent, we came across that odd tree again. To our surprise, it turned out to be a widow maker. It was about 4 inches in diameter and about 8 feet tall, and it had fallen with such force (from so high) and in such a vertical fashion that it actually impaled the trail almost a foot deep. When we came across it, it was sticking straight out of the ground. Lucky no one was around to get hurt!

Even though we didn't gain the pass this time, we enjoyed the climb ... and we got to hear the "drumbeat" noises of the ptarmigans (around 4,000 feet and up).

We chose to hike on a Sunday in which a chance of rain was predicted. It rained!

The parking lot was easy to find with many spaces to park. There were restrooms onsite as well.

The beginning of the hike was easy, wide trail at first then narrower for the first half or first 2/3 of the hike. We crossed over many little mud puddles, mini-streams, bubbling brooks so waterproof shoes are recommended. (Also as the trail winds along it becomes more and more rocky so my stiff and sturdy hiking shoes saved my ankles.)

When you get to the last .5 miles of the hike (there is a marker at this point, things start going up, with maintained stairs all along the way. When we got up to the top we were not prepared for the mist of the falls so we did not get to stay long at the viewpoint, it was wet!

With two little kids, it took 1.5 hours to go up and 1.25 hours to come down.

Trail is in great condition initially. The first section up to the Iron Horse Trail is clear of snow and the streams big and small are swollen with snow melt. The next mile or so after the crossing the Iron Horse trail continues free of snow. After that it is snow all the way with 2-3 feet still on the ground by the time you get to 3200 feet. The last mile or so traverses 6 areas that slope steeply and are free of trees: these are quite hazardous and slippery even with spikes.

The lake itself is partly free of ice. I took a photo of one of the dogs with my cellphone camera - I cloned out the leash just in case anyone is wondering whether I was ignoring lease laws :-)

Weather was light drizzle and I pretty much had the trail to myself once I passed the Iron Horse Trail.

Check "Bruces Walks" YouTube Chanel on getting to this location from the Seattle area, YouTube upload will be expanded in time:
http://www.youtube.com/[…]/UCaeUkaZE9EQkKrIjGv_HGmA?feature=watch

This trip did not actually follow Tr# 1033, which is totally under snow.
Commonwealth Ck --> Cave Ridge --> S. Ridge Snoqualmie --> descend E, traverse ENE, then regain the ridge at Snoqualmie's ENE sub-summit --> follow ridge to Lundin --> descend into upper Commonwealth Basin --> out via Commonwealth Creek. I think this route requires good snow cover. Might last another few weeks.

WARNING: Avalanche danger just the previous week was quite high (photo)! Always check http://www.nwac.us/forecast/avalanche/current/zone/6/ , even in the late spring!
Mountaineering trip, not a hike. Ice ax. No crampons (might be handy if frozen hard). Snowshoes were not very useful today. Snow conditions excellent-to-perfect.

Take Exit 52 from I-5 (1st Snoqualmie exit), turn left under I-5, then park immediately. The PCT/1033 trailhead road is still completely under snow. More snow than I've ever seen here.
Start early. I left trailhead at 7:30 AM, and snow was firm and mostly frozen all the way to Snoqualmie Mt. summit. Ice ax was REQUIRED to cross the double-log bridge across Commonwealth Ck in the morning; steep stream snowbanks were frozen hard; dog needed assistance. The second stream, which you need to cross almost immediately, had only one thin snowbridge at that place; perhaps more snowbridges upstream. Crossing the double log was much easier late in the day when snow was softer.

7:30AM Leave trailhead
9:30AM 4700' basin at base of S ridge. NO OPEN WATER at the basin outfall (I was counting on it)! Had to ascend nasty steep terrain to get water at the one stream coming off the S ridge. Not recommended!
11:30AM summit. Snow was not softening much. It was getting soft by the time I left summit about 2:30. Good dlissading and insignificant postholing on the exit.
6:15PM back at car (via Lundin Peak S slopes and upper Commonwealth basin).

From summit, descended the S ridge briefly, then glissaded E. NOTE: you have to be careful about this; if you leave the S ridge too low, you can encounter the steep cliffs that line the basin between the S ridge and Cave Ridge. That would be dangerous! I left the S ridge at the first opportunity, glissaded a few hundred feet to a wide-open, easy bench, then headed NE to the rib running SSE from Snoqualmie Mountains' NE sub-summit. Climbed back up to Snoqualmie's NE sub-summit, and from there, it was easy (sometimes steep) snow travel NE to Lundin.
Experienced climbers without an awkward dog could traverse Snoqualmie's ENE ridge much higher -- skip the glissade -- traverse as high as you can until you reach the ESE sub-summit.
Much depends on how much snow, and what condition. This route would have been suicidal last weekend. We glissaded a recent avalanche deposit.
Commonwealth Creek's upper west fork forms a big basin between Snoqualmie and Lundin Peaks. I descended this, straight South. Lots of foot traffic following the Right (West) bank. Leads right back to the lovely double-log bridge.
Without good, heavy snow cover like there is now, I don't think I'd want to do this traverse from Snoqualmie to Lundin. If it'snot in-shape, just descend the S ridge back to the basin and climb back up to the Guye/Cave Ridge saddle and go out the way you came in.
I've never done Snoqualmie from the Alpental parking lot. I think the Commonwealth Basin route would be more interesting.

We started up the Little Si trail and at about 1/2 mile, took the second entrance to the Boulder Garden Loop Trail. Here is the deal; if you like going up steep inclines but don't like going down as much, like me, take the second entrance to the Boulder Garden Loop Trail, climb like a mountain goat for about 3/4 mile. You will reach the high point of the loop trail where you will see the Mt. Si. old trail going up on the left. Now go up Mt. Si. It is steep in places, but if you made it to the cutoff, you should be fine. There are no blowdowns and you won't lose the trail. When you come back down and get to the loop trail, head to the left. It is probably 1 1/2 miles back to the first entrance of the Loop Trail off the Little Si trail, but it is graded for a grandma and you can walk it out in no time. Plus the boulder garden will be on your left as you are coming down.

Hiked up Beverly Turnpike trail on a BC skiing adventure to ski the N face of Iron Peak. The road is now open to the TH (two weeks ago we skied up the road on two feet of snow-fast melt) and the Turnpike trail is snow free until around 4000 feet where the snowpack quickly deepens. The ford of Bean Creek was a little sloppy as the flow is still pretty high and the logs across the crossing point are minimal. The lower section of the Bean Creek basin trail also looked melted out. The upper basin below Iron Peak is still fully snowbound and a large cornice still hangs from the ridge along Iron Peak. Great skiing from Iron Peak down through the basin but it looks to be a couple of weeks before the worst of the higher levels now melts from the Teanaway, especially on north facing aspects.

Plans for trip to the North Cascades fell through last minute, so since packs were ready to go son and I opted for a easy overnight at Greenwater Lakes. Late start allowed us to see all the shooters and car campers out and about. We made the trailhead about 11 a.m. and were a little worried to see it full of cars. The trail is in great condition, smooth, dry and snow free to the Greenwater Lakes. Passed a lot of dayhikers along the trail. River is really roaring with the spring run-off! Found our favorite site at the second lake unoccupied, so quickly set camp. We could see several wisps of smoke later in the evening from other camps, but it was wonderfully still and warm. Broke camp early next morning as it started to sprinkle and we wanted to beat the rain back to the trailhead. If you have never been up trail 1176, make a plan for it, you won't be disappointed.

This was the East Bank hike going north to Maple Grove. The trail is great except for a few muddy areas that were easily negoitiable. We had fine weather with temperatures in the mid sixties and no bugs yet. There were still a few Trillium along the trail, but most were in the late stages of pinkishness. We also found a few piles of bear scat on the trail, but no sightings. We encountered two areas of trail slidings that look like they may become more unstable. These were areas where the trail was gravel and the slope was giving away above the tread.

We had lunch on the listing dock at Maple Grove in the sun and with a grand view of Mt Baker and some kayakers enjoying the water, one practicing the "Eskimo Roll" for a refreshing dip.

I went out to Cowiche Canyon for a couple of hours Fri afternoon. The red osier dogwood & choke cherry are in full bloom and all the trees & shrubs have leafed out. The creek is a medly of green & white. I saw a few other flowers, but the balsamroot is largely past and the lupine hasn't bloomed yet. The hillsides are still green, though, so it's a beautiful time to be in the canyon.
On Sat afternoon I walked what we are calling the Rocky Top Loop from the Rocky Top trailhead on Cowiche Mtn (not Snow Mtn Ranch proper). It's not well marked yet, but will be by early June. The balsamroot was largely past here as well, but there was some nice lupine & Oregon sunshine and lots of beautiful thyme-leaf desert buckwheat.

We left the lower Devils Gulch trailhead around 9 a.m. staying to the right at the Devil’s Gulch/Mission Ridge intersection. We made our way up and down slight to moderate hills, across 3 creeks that got our feet wet and another where we walked across logs. The creeks were not too difficult to cross but my pants did get wet mid-way up my calf (I am 5’5’) and were little too fast for my 40 lb dog to cross on his own. Throughout the day I ran into a half dozen bikers, 4 ORV, and a couple day hikers. Overall the trail was quiet and beautiful with wildflowers, views of surrounding hills, refreshing streams, and lots of birds, squirrels, and chipmunks. We arrived at the Upper Mission Ridge/Devils Gulch intersection and my stopping place for the day around 1:30 p.m. There is no water (well not a fast moving water source) after the fourth crossing, which I am guessing is ~2-3 miles from the above intersection. If desperate for water there is a small stream further up the trail towards the upper Devils Gulch trailhead; however will likely dry up during the summer months. A flat, well-used (lots of litter) campsite is a little ways up from the intersection (stay left). Other campsites are around if you do not mind camping on a slight hill. I had at least one deer/elk bump up against my tent around midnight and a Barred Owl called nearby.

Day 2 I decided to take the Mission Ridge trail back to the car. The idea that once you go up you gets to go down on the way back does not exactly apply to this trail. This trail goes up and down and up and down. However, while I felt this trail to be a bit more difficult than the Devils Gulch trail and with no water source I thought it to be more scenic. One moment I was walking along a ridge surrounded by wildflowers, the next in a dense forest, and the next in a more open forest environment.

A great loop hike that can be completed in a day or spread out across a couple of days. Because it is a popular biking trail be prepared to move out of the way at a moment’s notice.

Tried to get some takers on this trip, I can understand the reluctance, it's a long drive but oh what a nice trail.

Trail starts down low, in dense forest but doesn't waste any time gaining elevation. It's about 2100' in the first two miles. Yikes. Down low it was awesome...saw lots of chocolate lilies. A bit higher up in the open...gazillions of Balsam Root colored the hillside yellow. The trail is frustrating at times. It's a bit steep at times and narrow but boy in places is the trail narrow, steep and out sloped all at the same time. You'd tumble a ways if you slipped on the hardpack...

About 2.5 miles up the trail the grade eases up a bit, the trail now high enough that there is some relief and views of the surrounding peaks. Lots of snow still up high!

GPS said that at 2.7 miles I crossed a stream and entered the burn area. The 100 hikes book says "dense forest" but that forest is long gone. Just charcoal colored burnt snags as far at the eye can see. Still pretty sooty too. Several small trees down across the "trail", easy enough to step over. On the way out I spent some time snappy off branches trying to make it easier to travel.

At 3 miles I the snow was like BAM...consistent. At first only about 2-3 foot deep...then more like 5 or 6 foot deep. I could hear running streams under the snow here and there but the "trail" was easy enough to follow by making a bee-line for the saddle SW of the butte. Snow was pretty well consolidated (I didn't have snowshoes or microspikes).

I had the trail to myself the entire day. I was surprised to not run into another person all day. Nice for a change. I got to a bit over 3.5+ miles in and found myself staring down into a log and snow covered gully of sorts. I was already punching through the snow. Traveling alone...new knees...I just didn't want to risk a slip and getting myself banged up. Who knew when one of the post holes could be one where I'd sprain an angle, gash my leg, tweak a knee. Seemed safer to call it a day and enjoy the sun while it lasted...and it was clouding over fast.

I backtracked to a nice viewpoint back in an area that wasn't burned for lunch enjoying the solitude. Then it was a quick trip back down to the car.

Full photoset here: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Stats: about 7.25 miles, 2550' gain (round trip).

This fantastic Spring hike should be an annual event. It’s less than 2 1/2 miles to the lake and most of that trek is through ancient forest with giantic Red Cedars. At 2 miles you do exit the forest and traverse an open slope with great views. Today the hummingbirds entertained us with their courtship ritual of climbing steeply into the air then diving rapidly back down to the ground, making this walk through the Vine Maples a delight. 4 feet of snow surround the lake and snow is still present the last 1/4 mile to and from the lake so hiking poles are recommended. Marshmallow pillows of snow still remain on Lake Twentytwo creek as it exits the lake, reminding me that summer hikes are just around the corner along with campfires and s’mores.

This was a really fun and spectacular hike, being enjoyed by tons of people on a beautiful day. We were able to park near the lower trailhead. The hike to the upper trailhead begins along a snowy road but was mostly along a snow free ridge, which seems not to be the usual trail listed in the trail description. The snow becomes deep and solid not long after the upper trailhead. Snowshoes and crampons are not required, as it is possible to follow the hard packed steps kicked into the snow, but some time at the stairmaster on the gym would be advised as preparation, and hiking poles are useful. The summit views are expansive.

Be sure to bring rainpants, a rain coat, gloves, gaiters and an iceaxe for the long, wild glissade down.

5 hours round trip, including time for lunch and views on the summit.

A beautiful day in the Ingalls Creek valley. We went as far as the Falls Creek Trail junction. We encountered no snow except for a single, easily crossed, level 25-yard patch shortly before the Falls Creek junction. All the campsites at Falls Creek Camp (at that trail junction) were snowfree and appeared to be dry.

Wildflowers were getting good. Balsamroot good toward the start, and Paintbrush (ranging from orange to yellow) starting to bloom all along the trail. The first few Lupines just beginning to flower. A few Calypso Orchids somewhat farther on. Several spectacular Trillium displays around and after the 5 mile point, sometimes intermingled with Glacier Lilies. Nevertheless, except perhaps for the Trillium and Glacier Lilies, the best wildflower displays are at least one, and probably two, weeks in the future.

No real problem deadfalls; most are just stride-acrosses; one or two will slow you a few seconds, but no major clamber-overs. Just a few muddy spots. No difficult sidestream crossings. There are a few short stretches of trail that could use some drainage work, especially just before the viewspot about 4 miles in.

This trail has numerous good camp spots in the first few miles; many were in use by families with small kids by the time we hiked out about suppertime. Good lunch spots at the aforementioned downvalley view at about 4 miles, along the creek near the Falls Creek confluence, and along the gravel bar at the Falls Creek trail ford a half-mile or so farther.

Barclay Lake is always a good early spring hike, a sentiment apparently shared by the dozens of other hikers on the trail today, with cars filling the TH parking lot and overflowing a quarter mile down the road. The road is in excellent shape, snow-free all the way to the TH.

The hike is also in good shape, thanx to a WTA crew that cleared several huge Doug Firs that had fallen across the trail. Two more blowdowns still block that trail near the lake, but I believe there is another WTA work party scheduled to clear those as well. Thanx to the volunteers that did all the work. Other than the blowdowns, the trail is in good shape.

I passed seven or eight tents set up along the lakeside on my way to Eagle Lake, so it was definitely not a place for solitude seekers, who should try it on weekdays.

The "trail" to Eagle Lake is really a bootpath that is particularly difficult to follow this time of year, obscured by a winter's-worth of needle fall. Though marked intermittently by red surveryor's tape, it is still challenging because: a) The trail is very steep, rooty, rocky, and brushy, with lots of forest debris to further obscure the way. It is not maintained except by hikers' boots. Think Mailbox Peak on steroids. b) There is a long traverse of a huge rockslide that can be dangerous for the unwary, who could easily fall between the car-sized boulders (guaranteed to hurt!). There is nothing vaguely like a trail through the chute, just a few cairns here and there. Some of the cairns are misleading as well, sited off of the main "trail". Some of this section requires some elementary scrambling technique.

But, if you can make it to the top, you'll be impressed by Eagle Lake nestled at the foot of Merchant Peak and the enormous and aptly named Paradise Meadow area.

I didn't make it that far, though I was surprised at just how far I did get. There was very little snow until I finished crossing the chute, where the snow suddenly became 4-8 feet deep in the woods. I struggled through it for a while but finally gave up just before Stone Lake due to many deep tree wells and quickly rotting snow bridges that sometimes conceal rocky streambeds deep underneath. Very dangerous stuff, real leg-busters.

So if you still want to see Eagle Lake, and have good pathfinding skills, wait another two or three weeks.

Amazing falls with no strain whatsoever to reach there or come back. Very short sweet and beautiful hike. No problem whatsoever to reach it.

We went to Mt.Walker hike and hit this after completing the hike.
Be careful about the GPS co-ordinates given, you don't need to go as deep as it takes you. You will hit the falls 0.8 miles before the given GPS co-ordinates. The signage is very good, please follow it.

I'm surprised that with 50,000 other folks up there yesterday (May 19th), that no one wrote a trail report. I may have exaggerated a bit on the numbers but not by much.

Three weeks ago I was still cross-country skiing up Amabilis Mt and now its back to Mt Si. It was a slow trip for this guy but I did get up to the bench on the ridge (Haystack to the right and way-trail to Tenerrif to the left.

There was still a bit of snow in the basin above the rock staircases. Ate my early lunch at around 10:45 and headed down. At I hit the top of the lower staircase, I was actually taken aback by the sheer number of folks sunning themselves on the rocks. Must have been about 50 people and as I headed on down many, many more were on their way up.

Pretty dry conditions along the entire trail but I guess a week of dry weather and 80's or near 80's does that.

The trip down was uneventful and allowing those heading up to continue their pace, gave my knees and hips a brief rest.

I guess it's time to beat myself back into some kind of shape.

Enjoy the mountains...........

(aside, you'd think now that they charge us for parking here, they could fill the car-eating potholes)

We started at 0840 in the gorgeous sunshine. This was a perfect start time as the trail was quiet. But on the return, it was a madhouse! We stayed on top for about 1.5 hrs and we had a nice 10 minute window with the whole thing to ourselves.

The trail was dry and easy to follow with easy creek crossings and the views were fabulous.

It took us approx. 1 hr and 35 min to get up there and 1 hr and 10 on the way back.

Great day and great workout!!

Our group of 6 Mountaineers set out at 7:30AM from Tibbets P&R in Issaquah to take on Mt Teneriffe. Starting at the School Bus Turnout trailhead in blue-sky weather, we hiked the road for about 3 miles before beginning to encounter snow, then walked through patchy then constant snow (though well consolidated) up to road-end. Glorious views from the road across to Mount Rainier, the I-5 corridor and Rattlesnake Ledge/Lake. At road-end we could see the peaks to the north. From road end the trail continued steeply up, in solid snow through the trees. We followed sparse bootprints but no routefinding problems - just had to follow the ridge to the top of a hill, down the next saddle, and up to the top of Teneriffe about 7 miles from the start. Microspikes proved very handy on the steeper sections (and were even handier later). From the summit the views were fabulous, up the Middle Fork Snoqualmie drainage to Hinman and Daniel, north to Glacier Peak, south to Rainier.

We decided rather than hiking the road back the way we came we would follow the unmarked trail down the ridge to Teneriffe Falls (formerly Kamikaze Falls). Heading back down a short distance, the track then headed off on ~260 degrees bearing steeply down. I don't know how we would have kept from serious slipping without traction! The snow ended fairly quickly on this side, and the trail turned out to be a very obvious beaten down boot track but steeper than steep, with increasing ankle-turner rocks and roots as we descended. Finally about 2 miles from the summit we arrived at Kamikaze Falls (with the commensurate mob) and followed the much better track from there on down about 3.5 miles to the parking area. The ridge trail past the falls saved about 3 miles in total but would have been quite brutal to go up.

  A great weekend for a hike so I decided stay in The North Cascades and hike The East Bank of The Baker Lake Trail#610. I left at 6:00 am and got to the trailhead at 7:30 am just as the sun was breaking over the mountain in the parking lot. There was a half a dozen cars there most looked like overnighters. The trail is at the end of Baker Lake Road. It is approximatley 26 miles from Highway 20. The last 11 miles or so is gravel but the road is in great shape.
 Be aware that signs say the gravel portion of the road will be closed from June 15 to July 15th. There will be no access to park at north end of Baker Lake during those 30 days. I believe it will not affect any of the bigger camping areas such as Boulder, Swift and Shannon Creek Campgrounds. If you want to hike this trail do it before then.
 The weather was nice but some what cold this morning but it warmed up quickly once I got on the trail. The trail starts in the far left corner as you pull in to the parking lot. After about a mile on the trail you come to a fork where you go right to cross over the bridge that spans the Baker River on The Baker Lake Trail#610 or go straight on The Baker River Trail #606. This is one of the bigger bridges I have seen built to give access to a trail but it allows for great views of Baker River.
 I was heading to Noisy Creek Campground which is approximatley 8 miles round trip from the parking lot. This camp site is a hikers campground only. The trail follows along the Baker River for a short time but starts to climb very slightly to stay along the hill side and out of the area of the river that might flood when its at its highest level. There is lots of old growth trees along the trail especially Western Redwood Cedar. There are still flowers in bloom but they are fading quickly. There was trail maintenance work done here last year and I believe there is some planned this year also but this trail is in relatively good shape up to this campground. There was no down trees crossing the trail at all. There are several creeks to cross so bring your hiking poles to help with balance unless getting wet is of no importance to you. It took me 2 1/2 hours to get to Noisy Creek at a leisurely pace. A very nice camping area nestled in some old growth next to a small bay the Noisy Creek flows into. This is a very nice hike and should be put on your list to do if in The North Cascades. I recommended you do this hike in April or May before the mosquitos come out because they are really bad around Baker Lake in July, August and September. Check out videos of this hike or over 170 other hikes I have done in Washington State on my youtube channel at lmm3181 or click on these direct links.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkeLaxrWx9A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lW0gG1mbpE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nH7KyX21kDE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pw9OH63KTzU
As always get out and see this great state and enjoy your hiking.

Take Care
Mike

It was a gorgeous day and the trail was pretty dried up after 2 weeks of solid sunshine. We were on a hunt for wildflowers, but it seems to be passed wildflower season already :-( The trail was not crowded, with only two other groups (both with dogs).

For the directions, do follow them exactly as written, otherwise it is easy to get lost. I would amend them at the end, once you cross Hannah Creek (the biggest creek you come to) you almost immediately turn right. Somebody had built a rock cairn that pointed us towards the path, otherwise we would have missed it. There are other paths that branch off from this along the way, but stick towards the creek and then you will finally be able to hear the sound of the falls, which will lead you to the fire pit and the falls.

We took a long weekend to visit the little-known Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness in southeast Washington. The nearest big town is Walla Wall, whose historic downtown is a nice place to stop for a meal. After parking at Panjab Campground on the Tucannon River road, we started our hike on the Rattlesnake Trail. This trail quickly led us to an intimidating ford of the snowmelt-swollen Panjab Creek. Rather than fording the creek, we crossed it on some large logs just upstream of the campground entrance, then took a rough streamside path donwstream to regain the main trail.

After the ford, the Rattlesnake Trail launched itself up a ridgeline badly burned by a fire. Fallen logs and brush provided frequent obstacles, and we briefly considered turning back. Above the 3700' mark, the trail fortunately become quite a bit better, though still steep. On a hot day, this trail would fry the soles off your boots - luckly for us the weather was cool and breezy. The trail took an entertaining route up the ridge, switchbacking past a succession of knobs and ledges of basalt, open grassy slopes, and groves of mostly fire burned trees. The views became increasing impressive the higher we climbed.

At 5000', we reached a plateau covered with meadows alive with white and purple wildflowes, and pictureque groves of pines and fir that had escaped the forest fire. Patches of snow watered the meadows and springs. All in all, a charming area, despite damage from the forest fire. As the sun set, we arrived at Alnus Spring and made camp.

The next day, we continued along the faint and little-used Rattlesnake Trail, which followed the gently rolling ridgeline past more meadows. Near Red Fir Springs was a hunter's camp in a meadow - a nice spot, except the springs themselves were in located in a horribly fire-scorched forest. More snow appeared as we climbed above 5500', and the trail became frequently wet and muddy. A long, wildflower-strewn meadow, a setting suitable for badly sung "Sound of Music" reenactments, led us to a 4-way junction with the Panjab and Mt. Misery trails.

We pondered trying to hike to Oregon Butte, the local high point with a great view, but decided not to do it because of heavy snow in that direction. So we instead headed to nearby Dunlap Spring, still buried in snow, and made camp in a grove of trees on the ridge. Then we explore the Mt. Misery Trail for a few miles, finding more lovely meadows and a massive hunters camp located near Bullfrog Springs. This trail was snowy and muddy in many places, and a GPS unit proved helpful for navigating the snow- covered areas. This area will be much nicer to hike in a few weeks, and the flowers should be spectacular.

The next day, we followed the Panjab Trail, which quickly descended from the meadow country into a deep canyon. This trail is one of the most popular in the area, especially with horse riders. We found it well-maintained with most blowdowns recently cut. However, horses tend to be hard on trails, and there were mud holes and deeply eroded areas to contend with. Fire damage was visible here, too, but plenty of live trees remained to provide shade near the creek.

Note if you arrive late at the trailhead and have time for only a short hike, you will find few camping opportunities in the canyon, due to the steep terrain and brushy, fire-damaged forest. The only usable campsites are located near the Turkey Creek Trail junction. There is a nice-looking spot in a forested flat a quarter mile before the junction, and a smallish site right at the junction. Upstream from Turkey Creek, there is absolutely nothing in the way of camping sites.

At length, we crossed a steel bridge over the raging Panjab creek, and arrived at the Panjab Trailhead, well- developed with parking, an outhouse, and major horse infrastructure - feeding troughs, loading platforms and such. Horse riding must be big here, but we saw nobody around on Monday. Hunting season may be another matter: take note if you arrive here in September.

A pleasant 2 mile walk down a deserted forest service road took us back to the Rattlesnake Ridge trailhead and our parked car.

road is open to trailhead and trail is in good shape, but wet in spots. hit solid snow after leaving forest close to where meadows open up to ice caves, which at the moment is simply a massive snow field. lots of waterfalls streaming down above. beautiful.

Departed Seattle around 6:20 AM and arrived at Paradise Inn around 9:30 with two friends. 2/3 or 3/4 of the lot was full so good time to arrive. 37F and clear sunny skies. Cold enough in the morning for hard snow pack and some folks where cross country skiing up hill. No cramp-ons used. Hiking with trekking poles, hat, shades, and SPF 45 (used and applied three times during the hike) & wearing dry-fit long sleeve, vest, parka (in pack on the way up), Sorel boots, and snow pants. Consumed 2L of water and had one 20g Protein bar; having 3L would have been better and a second 20g protein bar.
Could hear two slides and visually caught one of them; no danger along main trail yet always cool to hear/see. Take the time to turn around and enjoy the view... this hike could see Adams, Helens, and Hood. Word for the day was magnanimous. Left phone in car so no photos... sorry.
Arrived at Camp Muir 2hr 40mins later (last of the three), 30F, and clear skies all around aside from the storm front one could see approaching. Rested for 20 minutes then began decent.
Decent was easy (minimal slip and slide) and took just over one hour and thirty minutes. Remember to breath deeply when you get a nasty cramp... The snow was noticeable slushy and happy to have the snow pants by the time we hit Panorama Point. by the time we hit the Paradise Inn Parking lot getting out was like playing frogger with amount of people and cars... not really yet glad people were out enjoy the national park.

The park was really busy on Mother's Day this year, so we decided to put our hike off a week and we were glad we did. The temperatures today were much more comfortable for hiking, and it was a beautiful day. The trails were not too crowded and they were in very good condition and dry due to the recent several days of dry weather. The falls were spectacular, possibly also as a result of the recent warm weather's causing rapid snow melt.

This hike is so close to Seattle, in Olallie State Park right off of exit 38. We got our Discover Pass at REI ($30) before heading out.

We found the trail easily, it is a well-maintained trail although it is not marked. Hiking up the trail, we saw trillium, scouler's corydalis, bleeding heart, and yellow wood violet in bloom. We report no rattlesnakes, but we did see a cute wee garter snake slinking off. The trail climbed for two miles across easy footing, not a lot of roots and gravel pits to negotiate. We climbed up through a new forest past some sport climbers hauling themselves up rock faces. The hike is very pleasant and after two miles you come to an obvious lunch spot with great views. We turned around at this spot after resting- if you continue up, you will encounter snow and the hikers we saw going past this viewpoint had snowshoes slung over their shoulders.

This was an easy, pleasant hike-- this would be a great after work hike.

Trial still closed.

Very well maintained hike. The path is very dry. There was no problem getting to the top or to any other view points. Very good and doable hike. Just make sure you are warmed up before hitting the hike as gradient starts pretty quickly with no reliefs in between.
Follow the exact GPS co-ordinates given and you will be able to get to it with no issues. The trial itself goes into the woods immediately.
Trial starts with a moderately high gradient and continues with almost the same gradient all through to the top without too many reliefs.
You will reach the North view point after 2 miles of hike. Definitely continue to go to South view point which is flat and 0.5 miles of walk.

Left home a little after six to get to the trailhead before the crowds. Arriving a little bit before eight there were only six other cars in the parking lot, PERFECT. Starting off the hike the temp was 45 and my fingers were a little cold the first mile, making me wonder if short sleaves was the best option however once the climb began the coldness disappeared. Turned off to the falls first which was beautiful, lots of water flowing down this time of year. Enjoyed the view all by myself for a good five-ten minutes before heading back down to the main trail. As I kept plugging up the trail it was realized that the bugs were actually pretty light. As arrived near the top, the trail began to get muddy from snow that has melted, I would say between 1/4 and a 1/2 mile from the lake. Then there was some snow the last 200-300 feet to the lake, but nothing to serious. Was able to enjoy the view of the lake all on my own at the lunch rock for about twenty minutes, which was still completely covered in snow, before heading down. On the way down, easily passed 60-70 groups of people heading up with more then a few letting their dogs run around without a leash! Please leash those dogs! The bugs were heavier on the way down, but considering it is in the middle of the woods they were not to bad. Finishing the hike a little before noon, the main parking lot was overun with vehicles and so was the lower lot.

If you waant some sollitude, I strongly suggest arrive 8 or earlier in the morning.

This is one of my favorite May scrambles and accompanying me today were Ike and the Transporter. The road to the trailhead is rough as previously reported. I was glad I wasn't driving. Thanks Ike! It seems to get rougher every year, but we managed to park at the last junction/waterfall place. From there it's just a hop, skip, and couple of jumps to the trailhead or what passes for one. There were a couple of cars parked here and some at the road end. It's worth noting that the four wheel drives were parked down below and the passenger cars went the farthest. So, I guess the road can be driven by those who don't like their cars very much. We were soon on the track leading up through the clearcut on ball bearing rock and over logs and other assorted stuff. I do think that the trail is markedly better than the first time I did this over 20 years ago, but it's still a knee buster and getting brushier all the time. We didn't hit snow until shortly before the talus field, but it was pretty constant after that. It was early enough for us that it was icy in places, especially the places where you don't want it to be, but we found a safe way through some steep snow sections and then popped out on the summit ridge. From there it's a slog to the summit. Previous reports recommend snowshoes and ice axes. That may be true on warmer days, but the snow is very consolidated now and it didn't seem that ice axes would be very helpful either at this point. However, I'd recommend microspikes or at least yaktrax in the shady steep places, although by afternoon everything was soft enough to forego traction devices. Views from the summit are fabulous this time of year in every direction, but there was a icy breeze today so lollygagging wasn't on the agenda. Still, we bundled up and enjoyed a leisurely lunch. The trip down was pleasant aside from the multiple spills I had from the ball bearing rocks on the latter part of the trail. On the negative side, there were several groups of people target practicing along the road, which has been happening on a lot on trips lately. I don't remember this so much in the past, but it seems like every trip I've done lately has been a shooting fest for the camo folks. I don't want to begrudge anyone their recreation of choice, but I still find it interesting that there is so much of this going on everywhere. Are we becoming a mecca for the survivalist gang? It's also interesting to me that most of these people are families with kids in camo and the whole bunch shooting and, well, it's just strange. In my opinion. Still, a great time was had by all, although we skipped dinner since the culinary wasteland that is Hwy 2 was uninspiring. Home for chili and beer!

Started hiking around 11am, just a few cars in the main parking lot.

The short interpretive loops near the parking lot were in great condition, with newish-looking benches and signs installed every few feet.

Did a quick side trip down to the river; the trails after that were all well above the river and offered few views of the river.

The Hobbit Trail had quite a few blowdowns, and some muddy spots. Almost missed the hobbits when we went off-trail to detour around a large blowdown.

Followed the North Trail back, but there were so many blowdowns, we ended up walking along the road for a while.

Many wildflowers were blooming, and there were still few bugs. Encountered just a handful of people, most near the (closed) interpretive center.

Photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/[…]/FederationForestStateParkMay2012
Tracklog: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/179933559

Wonderful spring hike. Reached turnoff to FR 70 at 7:00 am and were greeted by two elk grazing by the side of the road. There are a few spots where there is water on the trail, but nothing difficult to avoid. Greenwater River is spectacular now with heavy spring melt. Both Greenwate Lakes lived up to their names and were quite green! We took the right fork to Lost Lake but ran into solid snow about 1/4 mile later and headed back down.

First time I hiked this. Started out at the trailhead at 11:30am and took the lower creek route. Trail was in good shape until about the last mile and a half to the lake. Major windfall and blowdown issues and missed the first switchback to the lake. Followed a wrecked boardwalk to a waterfall and lost the trail. Headed back and found the switchback at a blownover rootball. Continued to the lake and basin was pretty much melted out. Wanted to explore more of the lake than I did, but a lot of windfall and blowdowns. Trail crews need to work on the last part of the trail and the lake. Took the upper route back, but would recomend the lower route, much more interesting. Was back at the car by 4:30pm. Good early season hike.

It’s well worth swinging by Falls View Campground near Mt. Walker to cap off a day of great hiking. This would also be a perfect hike for very young children -- short with lots of diversions! We did this on our way home from Mt. Zion and were pleasantly surprised by this nice little 1.5 mile loop to Falls View Canyon along the Quilcene River.

The falls themselves can be viewed right off the parking area, about .1 from the trailhead. I wish you could see them from the river as they are really pretty spectacular, especially now with lots of water. The canyon loop trail starts to the left of the sign.

It is a lovely, very well maintained little trail. The rhodies are just coming into their glory. Also blooming now are miner’s lettuce, sea foam, false Solomon’s seal, Oregon grape, wood violet, bleeding heart, star flower, and the salmonberry on their way out. The entire way is lined with tons of ferns (I saw at least 6 varieties) and lichen floating in the breeze from the trees. There’s a very nice spot to sit by the river with a streamlet falling in nearby. We enjoyed watching an ouzel catching insects against the green, green water slipping over the colored rocks below. What a pretty spot!

Pics are at: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Snow starting at around 3800 feet, right before the turn off to Mason Lake (2.3 miles). Still a lovely hike though with some trillium starting to pop up and nice views of the mountains on the other side of 90 along the way.

Perfect day for this hike. Nice trail, flowers blooming. About 2 miles up, we ran into a very aggressive mountain goat. He bluff charged us twice before we headed back down. He began pursuit (not bluffing anymore!) but stopped after our screaming took off. We ran into some other hikers heading up and decided to try it again thinking that we'd be okay as a group. When we reached the spot where we'd seen him, he was gone. We saw a large male goat on the other side of the river and assumed he was leaving the area. We continued up another mile or 2 before heading back and to our surprise, there was our not so friendly guardian of the cliff. He charged us again! I have to say that, although we had read the sign at the trailhead, throwing rocks at this guy never crossed our minds as we high-tailed it down. We ran into several other hikers having the same experience around that bend. Definitely chalking this up as one of my all time top ten favorite hikes! Be careful... I am quite sure he would have loved to see us rolling down the mountainside and, although we're giggling now, this could have ended much differently.

Took our Scout troop of 11 yr old scouts to see the tunnel and were dissappointed to find it fenced and closed.

Snow was still packed on many parts of the trail.

Took advantage of the one good day this weekend to hike on up Mt. Teneriffe.

The trailhead was full of cars when we arrived at 10:45; ended up paying the $10 to the enterprising family just down the road. Alternative was to hike almost another mile.

Hike was uneventful up to Kamikaze Falls. Water flows were down from a couple of weeks ago when a couple of our group got a later start and couldn't summit.

We scooted up along the falls to the narrow trail that follows the rock wall. From there it's nothing but up, up, up. Roots, rocks, the full gamut.

With a few breaks along the way, we made it to the ridgeline; the trail is a bit ambiguous in spots, but it's clear that your path is simply to follow the ridgeline upward.

Eventually at about 4,000ft the trail turns over to snow. Best to have traction devices, as the steep climb is harder in anything less. Poles helped one of our group who didn't have extra traction. The trail meanders along the ridge, evidently goes a bit off the normal track as we found ourselves in some tight spots that just didn't seem like the main trail, but it didn't really matter. It's all snow anyway.

We made the final push the summit about 3 hours and fifteen minutes after we left our cars far below.

Though hazy, the view was spectacular. We could just make out Rainier and Baker.

We had our lunches and headed down, glissading over a few of the more open stretches.

Access road is blocked by snow 1-1/2 miles from trailhead. Snow can be largely, but not completely avoided by walking on the melted out shoulder of the road. Once passed the trailhead parking lot, the trail is snow free. There are two blowdown logs on the trail, one easier to climb over than the other. Colt's foot and trilium are out.

Those fortunate enough to live over here may already know about this falls - a worthy destination for a morning or afternoon.

Well-constructed granite stair-steps wind up the hill beneath an imposing boulder face, and staggered ponderosa pines provide an inviting canopy for birds. On this day the falls were positively over-spilling their bounds, and the creek crashing somewhat incongruously between the trunks of second-growth trees. Hand rails assist on the steep parts and adorn the bridges with curlicued style, and benches beckon at every turn.

Washington certainly excels in its waterfalls.

If you're looking for a short, steep hike with great views, Dirty Face Ridge is a good option.

The trailhead is just .15 miles past the Tubal Cain parking area, on the left side of the road. It is marked with a sign for the Little Quilcene Trail. Getting to the Tubal Cain parking area was not a problem and there was no sign of any snow on the road anymore.

The trail doesn't waste much time and is steep from the get-go. Lots of rhododenron in the first mile. I hit the first compact snow/ice patches at about 1.5 miles and 4,900 feet. Once up on the ridge, the stretches of snow become longer and deeper, although it wasn't difficult to go around them on the melted out portions of the ridge and keeping track of the trail wasn't a problem.

At 2.1 miles and 5,170 ft. I had to turn around as I was pinched for time, and from this point on the snow appeared to be continuous. The junction with the Mt. Townsend trail was still about .2 miles ahead. An ice axe wouldn't be a bad idea if you were going to try to go all the way to the top within the next few weeks.

The views on this trail are remarkable - Buckhorn and Iron Mountains are in view much of the time to the south, while to the west you have a full view of Tyler Peak, Baldy, and Gray Wolf Ridge.

With a cool and cloudless day in the forecast, today was the day to mark another trail off my bucket list. That trail being MailBox Peak. I arrived at the trailhead at 8:00 in the morning only to find it already full from others who had the same idea.
Everything I heard about this trail was true, including the view from the top being worth the price you pay getting there. I took my time, taking several breaks on the way up. Pleasant greetings were exchanged with each and every person I met on the trail, making it one of my more enjoyable hikes.
I reach the clearing at 4000ft around 11:00. Enjoyed the view and then used the steps of others to help me climb up the easier route through the snow field. Once above the snow, with the goal (the MailBox) in sight, I took a series of breaks while climbing the last few hundred feet to the top. I arrived at the MailBox (~4850ft) around noon.
On top, I was rewarded with a fantastic view. The Mailbox is set at one of the highest spots in the area, so you get a 360 degree view from there. I ate lunch with several other fellow hikers, as well as a local resident, a chipmunk. I stayed on top for about a half hour and then started the long trip back down.
Although I had brought my hiking boots with me, I left them in the car, choosing to make the hike in my lighter tennis shoes. I had no problems. My only advice, is get to the trailhead early, bring lots of water and take your time. Even though this hike is listed at 2.5 miles, it’s a marathon and not a sprint.

Brooklake Hikers (10 people & 2 dogs) set out on Mt Si main trail at about 8:45 AM. Parking lot already filling up (3rd section already just about full). 3 of us decided to do Talus Loop which is off of the main trail about 0.7 mile up. It includes a viewpoint near the end of the loop on a talus rock slope. This gave us a short respite & some solitude from the crowds as we only saw about 3 other people on this loop trail. We reunited w/ the main trail right as 3 of our group were arriving there. Trail in good shape & snow free to the top. 8 of us found a nice spot for lunch out of the wind right up against the base of the haystack. The last 2 members of our group arrived shortly after. Nice view of Mt Rainier from that point. All the usual views except the Olympics which were too hazy/cloudy. After a while, 7 of us decided to scramble up to the top of the haystack. As group leader I was trying to remember if I had everybody sign their waivers beforehand! Anyway, we were careful to keep 3 points of contact at all times & before long 6 of us (one turned back) were standing on the top. Only 2 of us had done this before so it was quite a first for the others. There was one other large group on top + one other guy. We all took turns taking group pix for each other. When we left the solo hiker had the summit all to himself. All the usual views from the top minus Mt Baker - too hazy. Before we headed back down I checked out the trail heading east from the haystack. I had always assumed this was the trail to Mt Teneriffe. It was well marked w/ ribbons and even, in places, small logs marking the trail. I went as far as the crest in the woods, where I could see the Mt Teneriffe summit in the distance, before turning around. I could see a bit of snow beyond still. Probably another few weeks before it fully melts out. The weather turned out to be great, however, by the end of our hike you could see clouds, from the next forecasted system, moving in. A stop at our usual favorite in North Bend - Scott's Dairy Freeze - topped the day.

this was my third time hiking. Its one of my favorite hikes. The weather was great and the trail was mainly dry. There were a lot of bugs but no mosquitoes so we didn't have to wear bug spray. We started hiking a around 11:00. The trail wasn't too crowded going up.
At the lake, we didn't go to Lunch rock because there was still a lot of snow up the last staircase. We found a smaller rock that was perfect for the three of us. The chipmunks were surrounding us as we ate which I thought was adorable.
We then saw a dog on the frozen lake running around. I was shocked to that anyone would let their dog out on the lake; especially since the ice was gone in some places. As we sat their longer, a group of people came closer to us. then we watched a guy walk out on the lake; not to mention he was holding what looked like to be a very expensive camera. he continued to walk out further on the lake. then I realized the dog we saw early belonged to this group.
All I will say is that I'm not "ice" expert, but i would not recommend walking on Lake Serene; no matter how thick the ice may look.
Natural Selection I guess.

coming down; the trail is rather narrow so it took longer than normal yielding to the significant amount of hikers coming up.

this is a hike that is def worth doing. Its so beautiful and great views on teh way up as well.

Despite our initial discover that we had to walk 2 miles on the original gravel road just to get to the original trail head (we've submitted a trail description change), the gravel road walk was still in beautiful woods with peakaboo glimpses of Strada Lake and the mountain peaks around.

The original trail is a wonderfully classic trail with pine cones on the trail and a variety of terrain, including a brief start through raspberry bushes fighting for the trail (I was glad to find this didn't last long) and then a climb higher into an exemplar northwestern hike with rocks, roots, and fallen trees. The trail is well maintained and the lakes are quite lovely. There are several campsites at the lakes, though camping is only permitted June 15- October 15 (legally).

Note that there is snow near the top, covering the trail completely by the time you reach the smaller of the two lakes. Gaitors are highly recommended if you plan to walk to Big Greider and/or look for the viewpoint (which we couldn't find, despite our best attempts).

Due, presumably, to the unexpected 2 mile gravel road approach, this trail was a great one for solitude and peace.

We didn't actually hike with a dog, but we saw 2.

Hike elevation gain/loss and neat details: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/180228011

The trailhead at the west end of the loop is currently closed. You must hike east, down the old road for about 1/2 mile to the east end of the loop trail and start up from that point. The trail head is marked and easy to find.

Gorgeous views of the Columbia and the Gorge from the very start, they just get better as you climb up the trail. You reach the top just short of three miles. Wild flowers are blooming, but have not reached their peak yet.

YouTube channel, "Bruces Walks", Ellensburg, Kittitas Valley, etc.:
http://www.youtube.com/[…]/UCaeUkaZE9EQkKrIjGv_HGmA?feature=watch
Check all entries, share, bookmark, embed, etc., show your friends where you have been or where you're going.

We headed out pretty early to get to Independence Lake, it is a pretty decent drive out. We got to the dirt road and went about 3.5 miles and then there was snow covering the road. It was pretty deep and my little car couldn't make it over it. I would have parked my car on the side but the road is VERY narrow and wouldn't have left room for others cars to pass. We then back tracked down to the highway and tried Deer Creek, got about 2 or so miles in and same thing lots of snow covering the road. Same thing with Boardman Lake and Ashland Lake. We then gave up on doing a new trail and went to Lake Twenty Two. It is a lovely trail but very busy with other people and their pets. There is still snow on the trail, trekking poles and yaktraks highly recommended. Overall it was a great day to hike, and at least we got to see the beautiful lake once again. It was nice seeing the difference of what two weeks of sunshine had done to the snow.

Great hike, snow on trail when we got closer to Talapus. Trail to Olallie from Talapus was very difficult to find and follow, and I've done this hike before. We searched in vain for a while then gave up, just too much snow! Overall though, a great, and fairly gentle hike, as long you have waterproof boots for the snow.

Hike to the summit of Mt. Teneriffe:

Lower part of the hike up to Kamikaze Falls is straightforward--logging road and then a scree-strewn passage to the falls. Beautiful.

We went up along the falls to find the trail that continued up toward the top of Mt. Teneriffe. Though perhaps not the primary trail, it follows the rock along for a while before linking up with the main trail upward.

It's a rough trail with plenty of rocks, scree, and roots. It starts out sane, but quickly steepens and rarely lets up. The last 1.5 mile gain over 2,000 ft, so be prepared for a thigh-burning workout.

About 1,000 ft in altitude and 0.7 miles from the top, the trail turns over to all snow, so traction devices are still a good idea. The trail is rather ad hoc in the snow, so you more or less have to trust any trail that heads up.

But it's all worth the effort. The view from the relatively small summit is amazing.

In search of accessible, 3,000-foot-plus hikes, P3 beckoned. Its numbers (mileage and elevation gain) make it seem tame; but it’s anything but tame. And the farther up you go, the more serious it becomes.

As my wife and I ascended, hikers seemed to turn back left and right. It’s a steep hike, but it becomes dangerously steep in its upper reaches. In quite a few spots, if you slip and couldn’t catch yourself within a few feet, you would be in some serious trouble.

I tried to not think about that, though, as I scrambled up the mountain, grunting, huffing and puffing.

I’ve been on many exposed Class 3 and 4 climbs (unroped on solid rock), but this one provided the added element of slippery dirt and loose rocks. I was actually on all fours for great stretches of this climb. And I deemed it rather sketchy in a few spots.

The vegetation actually came in handy. For the first time ever, I clutched grass tufts for added security, so take that for what it's worth.

Toward the top, the scrambling was much more enjoyable. And the last stretch up the summit block was lots of fun. I wish it lasted longer.

Enjoyed some awesome views up top, as it was a bluebird day.

Getting down the steep sections took almost as long as getting up them.

As you descend, don’t be lured into taking the parallel spur ridge to the left. I didn’t notice it on the way up, but as we descended (and didn’t see anyone coming up or going down at the time), I second guessed myself for a minute and had to consult my map and gps to confirm we were on track.

We spent 2.5 hours getting up and 2 hours getting back down. Great physical and mental workout.

Other than a few blowdowns, the trail is in good condition to the falls. Made the mistake of not following the trail as it skirted a small amphitheater, so we added a about 0.3 miles to the hike looping around a small nature trail near the trail head. Was impressed by the height of the falls.

We went to Teneriffe Falls for an afternoon hike. The school bus turnaround/parking area was full, but after a short wait some cars pulled out, and we found parking near the blue DNR gate. The day was sunny but slightly hazy, breezy and not too muggy--perfect for a hike. The Teneriffe Road was in good condition, as was the remainder of the trail to the falls. Brown, black, and banana slugs were also out enjoying the day. There were only occasional wildflowers (primarily salmonberry) in bloom. We encountered a small number of easily passable blowdowns. After passing through two miles of new growth forest, we approached the rushing waters of Teneriffe Creek--perfect for a early summer day. At the small viewpoint area at the top of the trail we stopped for a group picture and some photos of the upper falls cascading downward, fortified by spring runoff. Boots are helpful on this trail, as there are some segments that are rocky. Hiking poles were useful for the initial third of the descent. Total time: 3.5 hours. Exciting fact of the day: WTA board member Craig McKibben was in our group.

I went up the "winter route", which unfortunately was free of snow until above the trees. This makes for some fairly significant bushwhacking. Followed pretty closely to the ridge on snow - but even in the fairly early morning conditions weren't optimal, with a couple of inches of weakly bound snow on top of a hard layer. Snowshoes did not work well here, plain boots or crampons were better. There were some places it was good to have my ice ax.

After admiring the fantastic views all around, I decided to try the summer route on the descent - especially given the low snow levels in the vicinity of the winter route. Paradoxically, there was far more snow on this route. While the cooler and still-dry weather as well as early time-of-day made the avy risk fairly low, other conditions could cause further avalanches. Also - there was a substantial zone of broken trees and brush from an earlier avalanche near a gully crossing (around 3500'). Traveling the summer route currently means some brush bashing and route finding. It's only about 100 yards long, but there's no convenient bypass (as for a avy debris situation closer to the trailhead), and you have to be careful not to miss the trail obscured by snow and debris.

Lots of birds about, heard first hermit thrush call for the year!

Perfect day for this beautiful hike. Flowers blooming, sunshine. About 2 miles up we ran saw a very aggressive mountain goat above the trail to the left. He bluff charged us twice before really taking off after a member of our group who thought he needed some pictures. We high-tailed it down about a 1/4 mile thinking our hike was over. While warning another group of hikers going up, we decided to try it again (much safer now with the others). When we got to the spot where we'd seen him, he was gone. Across the river we spotted what we thought was the ram that had charged us. We headed further up considering the threat was now gone. About 2 more miles we had our lunch and started down. When we reached that spot, the goat was standing on the same rock. This time we didn't make eye contact and kept moving. The photographer in our group was once again got sucked in to the evil goat trap and, once again, the goat chased him down. Although we'd read the signs about the goats, I have to say that throwing rocks never occurred to us! The screaming mob tactic must've worked though because we didn't see him again. We'd heard other hikers having similar experiences today. Definitely one of my top 10 favorite hikes! Although we're giggling now, this could have ended much differently. Be careful.... I am convinced this goat won't be happy until he sends a hiker tumbling off the steep cliff.

The road fine to the trailhead with new gravel on FS28, so deep that our Prius bottomed out once on the gravel in between wheel tracks. A few potholes on 2801 are easily negotiated. One thing I’d add to Romano’s directions – after you bear right on FR 28 and climb a while, you want to bear right at a 3-way junction to stay on FR 28 then will come to the fork where you bear right onto unsigned 2810.

The trail is in great condition and 100% melted out – a testament to the gorgeous weather we’ve had since MK19’s report of only a week ago! The very little snow at the summit must be sought in shady hollows off trail. Approaching the summit there are trails to the left and right. The one to the right is very overgrown and did have snow over parts. The one to the left is the one to get to the ledges with the views. Be aware the trail to the ledges is not maintained and is an adventure of bushwhacking and clambering over downed trees in parts. But it’s worth it! Keep going – you’ll know when you’re there. The views across the Canal, to Mt. Baker, across the Strait to Canada, and the Olympics are wonderful! And the sunny ledges aren’t so bad themselves for a bit of lunch and a snooze.

The rhodies are not blooming - maybe another 2 weeks. There are still trillium as well as miner's lettuce and yellow wood violets.

Our GPS said 4.8 mi, 1,365 elevation gain. It took less than 1 hour up, 1 ½ to soak in the views and sun, 1/2 hour down (with pics). Zero other hikers on our way up or along the ledges, but as we were hiking out just after noon, we saw 11 hikers and 4 well-behaved and controlled dogs on their way up.

Full pics are at: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

A trashy-looking driveway with a gate is located left of a long, curved guard rail along the river. This overgrown dirt road climbs steadily for 4 miles to a ridge with some nice views. We've tried several trail forks, but there is no definitive destination beyond turning around when the road drops over the hill and/or peters out. It doesn't matter, however, because this trip is all about the journey.

The diversity of wildflowers here is startling - from the diminutive blue-eyed Mary, to the exotic L. tweedyi and the bodacious balsamroot. Yet, today the butterflies stole the show. Clouds of blues rose as we stepped over their seep, while swallowtails, checkerspot, commas and Mourning Cloak all made brief appearances, and the half-dozen Sara Orangetips won "favorite" status with our group.

Drove up to the North Cascades to get away from the crowds on the trails closer to Seattle. Activity at the trailhead was minimal with just a few campers at the now open Colonial Creek Campground. The Thunder Creek trail was in excellent condition, as was the Fourth of July Pass trail. All of the downed trees mentioned in previous reports are gone. Creek crossings can be managed without getting feet wet. A few wildflowers along the trail. The views between the trees on the way up were excellent, though the best are at the camp. As mentioned, solitude was the order of the day and this hike delivered. Only saw four people all day (two on the way up and two on the way down). Lingering snow starts around the camp but it is hardly an issue. All of the sites at the camp are melted out. The snow becomes more significant at this point. Judging from the tree wells, it is still a few feet in places. I turned around at this point, not wanting to deal with the snow up to the pass and knowing that the best views were behind me.

An early start is a great idea for this hike. We enjoyed an abundance of wildflowers on our way up the steep trail. Flowers included Balsomroot, Lewisa, Phlox, Ballheads, and 24 Fairy Slipper Orchids in a spot 1' X 3'!

The morning air was chilly, but a stiff wind made us keep wearing our jackets. The trail is in good condition despite a few blowdowns. We did not encounter any hikers, which was quite a surprise.

During our descent my buddy, who is a hunter, spotted ears behind a rock in a meadow. The ears belonged to large doe muledeer who was lying down. She did not jump up as we made our way along the trail for a better view. She watched us intently, but maintained her position. We decided that she might have just given birth, so we did not disturb her. It was wonderful to see the doe at such close range.

Great early spring hike up to Heather Lake. If you have done this hike in the summer, it's worth going back now in the spring to see all the snow.

2 Mile hike to the lake...snow starts at 2,175 feet on the trail. Once you make it to the top there are many foot paths in the snow towards the lake. The snow is deep (6-10 feet) depending on the area your at. Make sure your path is safe...if not choose a different foot path, as the snow is melting fast.

Part of the boardwalk is clear, but other parts are still 5 feet deep in the snow. Amazing views all around with around 10 plus water falls.

80% of the lake is still covered in snow and ice

Beautiful hike on a trail starting from the end of the Sol Duc Hot springs road. We went on this hike and up to the high divide last year but only made it to Deer Lake this year. Trail sign says it's a 4 mile hike to the lake and we took almost 5 hours for the round trip.
First .8 miles gets you to the Sol Duc falls..a great short destination in itself. We got there about 10:30 and the sun was streaming through the trees and mist creating a spectacular rainbow. After taking many pictures we crossed the bridge and began our climb. The first 1/2 mile after the bridge is snow free. The last 2 1/2 miles are all SNOW..deep snow, and yes, we fell through in many places. We did have some boot prints to follow but they were very faded and old and were not always reliable making our trip to the lake more like 5 miles? Thanks for whoever put the orange metal squares on a few of the trees...But there were not enough of them..and they always seemed to be on the opposite side of the tree where we couldn't see them so we had many diversions. There were 3 areas where avalanches crossed the trail but no major problem to cross. Made it to the lake and the bridge over the outlet is melted and dry..provided a great picnic spot. All the campsites are in deep snow. The howling wind across the lake was freezing cold so we didn't stay long. We did not continue on the trail around the lake and up the ridge..the snow was very deep and we didn't see any tracks to follow..maybe we were the first to try to go around the lake. We'll be back later this summer and hike further to the ridge and the peak.

It looks like it's been more than a month since the last trip report on this trail, so here's an update.

Getting to the trailhead was not an issue, there is no snow left on the road or in the parking area. I hiked to Camp Handy (3.4 miles up) and there isn't any snow on the trail at all, and overall the trail was in great condition. I can't speak for the trail past Camp Handy, as that was my turnaround point.

This is a scenic, mellow river hike and perfect for a cloudy, drizzly day like it was on Friday.

I always mean to make a trail report. Whenever I come to look for a report, there seems to be a dearth of off-season or ill advised adventures. I mean to do my best to remedy that.

That being said, Granite Mountain was quite adventurous, but super enjoyable and not too ridiculous on this sunny May day.

Yes, there are parts of the trail that are crushed by an avalanche. Crews have clearly already been hard at work, first by cutting a detour trail where the avalanche damage is first evident and second, higher on the chute, clearing brush. That being said, the trail is gone when it gets near the elevation where it crosses the main chute. Be prepared to route find to regain the trail on the east side of the chute.

We went up the east side of the chute along the edge and through the woods till we got to the trail. Don't do this. It's much easier to use the trail detour and usable trail on the west side of the chute till you get higher. We just didn't see the detour and slogged blindly ahead. We're like that.

Once you connect to the trail on the west side of the chute you will hit patches of snow and then eventually be completely on snow. Just take the path of least resistance angling up and to the east. Eventually you will have a clear view to the ridge. You will probably see tracks as well.

We followed the ridge back to the west toward the lookout. We met another party who had climbed directly from the top of the avalanche chute to the tower, but descended along the trail route due to the steepness of that route. They had snowshoes. Don't know if they used them on the way up.

The snow is stable. We got to the top with just boots, but bring your gaiters if you have them, otherwise you'll get boots full of snow. Bring a map. Bring a map. Bring a map. And compass though you probably won't need it.

Not a simple hike, but super fun and a bit of adventure. If you weren't looking for that, you'd have probably stayed home anyhow, right?

I did my "tick dance" on the Cougar Canyon trail today! My friend, her daughter and I set out along the old jeep road outside the elk fence which runs along the Naches River. We parked at the pull-out on Hwy 12 just beyond its intersection with Hwy 410. After a short while we entered the first gate in the elk fence which runs high above the Naches River. We meandered for a bit amazed with the countless skulls, bones and spines of elk, strewn about the sagebrush in a seeming graveyard of these wild beasts. This was very impressive! After imagining the fantastic perils of the wild, we jumped onto the jeep track and followed its high path along the river. On our trek we saw two elk on the ridge, two bighorn sheep and two deer. When we came to the end of the jeep road (at the site of a shining metal A-frame structure), we avoided the single trail which heads downhill and ends in a tangle of trees and branches. Instead, we picked our way upward and onto a fairly established game trail. We followed its dry and often times slippery path around the ridge and over small rockslides, to a perch overlooking the horseshoe bend in the river along Hwy 410. As our time was running short, we didn't make it to our goal - Cougar Canyon and tall rock pillar which marks the base of the canyon. We settled on our perch for a quick lunch (and apparently to collect at least one tick). In retracing our steps along the narrow and dry game trail, I sensed the little bugger crawling under my shirt. When I convinced myself I was being attacked, I stopped, undid my pack and peaked over my shoulder and under my shirt. Aha! There he was, ready to bite! In a panic, I took off my shirt and proceeded with my "tick dance", shaking my shirt wildly in an attempt to shake my predator. When I got my wits about me, I realized I'd been dancing around the trail in what I only hoped looked like a bikini top to the drivers traveling across the way (and the construction workers at the rock quarry on the other side of the river). Whatever...
My friends and I retraced our steps, enjoyed the wildflower displays and the last remaining days of the green hills. This is a delightful walk... enjoy it while you can!

Used 2 cars so we could hike the entire mountain end to end. It was a great way to get in shape for the summer hiking season. Total distance 10.5 miles and about 3500 ft of elevation gain. We chose to hike from the West starting at Snoqualmie Point Trailhead (exit 27)hiking to Rattlesnake Lake. The trail is in great shape with the exception of about 1 mile of on and off snow coverage near East Peak.

This trail is cleared and snowfree up to Big Log Camp. After that, we encountered some patches of snow and a few nasty downed trees to climb over and around on the way to Camp Pleasant. We stayed the first night there and planned to go three more miles to Nine Stream the next day. Back on the trail, we found more and more patchy snow and were glad we'd brought snowshoes. For probably the last mile before Nine Stream we strapped them on and hiked on top of 3-5 feet of melting snowpack. There is one creek crossing without a good bridge where you'll have to remove your snowshoes and hop across logs and rocks. The footlog right before Nine Stream is intact and sturdy. Having never been as far as Nine Stream before, we were very happy to see that one large campsite back in the trees was thawed out completely. It was a little tough to locate the unfamiliar trail in the snow, but it was easy to see where the previous year's downed trees had been cut out of the way. We left Nine Stream the next morning and saw two black bears on the way back down!

We did this loop-hike clockwise. We camped at the first viewpoint once you get to the top of the ridge. There were some great sites up above the trail. The first half of the loop is essentially snow free. But, once you get east of the mt muller summit the trail wraps around the shady forested north side of the ridge where there is still up to four feet of snow. It's steep and when it's soft there are some pretty sketchy spots, especially with a backpack. but since we knew to follow the ridge it was relatively easy to stay on the trail (tho slightly nerveracking and slowgoing) We had one hiking pole each which I was grateful for. And since it was a warm day we did not need traction devices, tho we brought some. The deep snow is in sections on the trail, and lasts about a mile. Kinda sketchy, but well worth it. We saw a few glacier Lillie's near the top of mt muller where we also saw a black bear. He ran when he saw us. We never saw anybody else on the hike, I guess cause it was midweek.

Recent trip reports inform about trail conditions, which remain unchanged. The creek is running hard and quite noisy. There are many species of flowers blooming, but the main bloom will not occur until next month. Great weather made this a most pleasant hike.

Love checking off new hikes and this has been on the list for awhile. Left the Parking lot at 9:15am and thought "This hike isn't that tough its way overrated." Famous last words. After the easy going fist 3/4's of a mile its up up up and then some more up. You will sweat and your legs will burn and like me you may curse yourself for the weight in your pack (a mere 30 lbs which ended up feeling like 60). As you scramble along the trail trying to keep your footing among the gnarled exposed roots and boulders just remember its ONLY 2.5 miles (the longest 2.5 of your hiking career I'm sure). Eventually you clear the trees and are faced with a decision, lil' snowfield or lil' boulder field, (Snow is easier) after you reach the top of which ever path you choose you'll find the trail again and the summit is almost within sight. At last you see the object of your desire,a mailbox covered in the graffiti of past hikers who, like you, were up for the challenge of one of the toughest hikes in the Cascades. Congratulations!!

Just like all the other people have said the road in to the trail head is pretty bumpy, its not that bad as long as you go slowly.
We had great weather, headed out from the trail head about 10am and only saw one other group all day until we made it back to the car. The trail is totally clear of snow, just a few small trees down but they are easy to step over. several stream crossings that are flowing pretty fast from all the run off. Only one large river that was a little bit harder to cross, but as long as you have decent balance its doable. Both falls are pretty amazing right now totally worth the trip.

The wildflowers are great right now-- in profusion. However, be on the lookout for rattlesnakes. We saw 4, including one in the grass by the cabin in the aspen. The snakes are shy and fled from us, but sometimes not until we were too close. Also saw a bull snake and green racer. Nice birdlife, including some western bluebirds near the bottom. The road in is rough, but we made it to the elk gate in a Toyota Carolla by going very slowly. The 'exit' for Black Canyon from the Wenas road isn't marked, just look for a big wildlife area sign on the right a mile or two beyond Wenas Lake. Some water in the creek, but bring your own for drinking!

On YouTube Channel "Bruces Walks" Ellensburg, Kittitas Valley.
Very good walk, gorgeous.
http://www.youtube.com/[…]/UCaeUkaZE9EQkKrIjGv_HGmA?feature=watch

What a great hike. This was my first hike to Mount Washington. And what a treat!!! Trail is very well maintained. I followed Anchetas'86 directions on finding the "unmarked trail", and it was very helpful. Trail is in great shape, its dry. There were no traces of snow. A few bugs here and there, but nothing too bad. I really recommed this hike. We did it late in the evening after work. I needed a mid week hike fix, and this was it...

With the gates opened recently on the Pilchuck road, it was time for a trip to the lookout and the annual raising of the shutters. We were able to drive within 1.5 miles from the trailhead. After about 35 minutes of hiking the road we arrived at the parking area still covered in about 5 feet of snow.
The direct, winter approach was used on the three hour trek to the top. There were icy areas around trees and when heading around the west ridge to the south side. A Mountain axe and/or traction devices make for a safer approach. Also stay clear of ridge cornices that still remain. Wear good boots for kicking steps on the steeper slopes. The top can be windy and cold so carry extra clothing. It may be a good while before the trail can be utilized and this trip considered a hike.
http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

The route up Putrid Pete's is now snow free bottom to top. Last week I posted this picture http://www.wta.org/[…]/photo4_large which showed that the route was mostly snow free. After the warm weekend, all that is left are a few small patches that can be walked around. There is still snow on all sides, but the trail itself is dry and clear.

There are lots of good directions to PPP on this site so I wont rehash them. The section of trail through the woods is clear, and a kind forest gnome has made the 3 major junctions easy to spot so the first timer won't get easily lost if they have good directions with them. The turn off to the PPP trail from the Ira Spring trail (straight at the first switchback turn) has been covered up with branches, so look for the unnaturally placed branches.

Only saw one other party hiking this today, which happened to be the same three guys I ran into here on the summit last year. They were headed to Web Mtn or Mt Defiance as well, but I don't' know which way they ended up going. There are still some scary snowfields on the way to Web. The way over to Defiance looked more doable right now. Beautiful day to be out, no bugs!

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I wanted to try out my new headlamp and go for a sunset hike, so after work I borrowed an adorable Lab mix from my landlord and headed to the Chirico Trail. I arrived at the trailhead around 7. It was my first time hiking this trail, and it seemed so much longer than a mile and a half up (not a good reflection of how in shape I am!) but the views were great and the trail was in perfect condition.

There were quite a few hikers out but most of them coming down as we were going up. Roxy was the perfect companion, keeping me at a steady pace and meeting a few new four-legged friends along the way. We reached the top at 8:15 and enjoyed food and watched a few paragliders before getting back to the car at 9.

Car to car: 1.5 hours, not including breaks

Drive 14.5 miles along FS road 5700 to gate #30 . Its about 1.5 miles past the new, red Sunday Creek bridge that has been tagged with a Barack Obama comment. You will NOT see a trailhead sign as it is 200 yards down the #5720 logging road (not marked) from the gate. Hancock Resources has this gate posted requiring a permit from them to enter - ignore it. It is public access to the Alpine Lake Wilderness. Lots of bugs at this trailhead. .25 mile in, encounter the "bog" which requires sidestepping around it. Your feet will get wet without mid to high boots. Bugs stop as soon as the bog area is traversed. At the first obvious trail fork, stay left and encounter Sunday Creek at about 1.0 miles (45 min for us old guys). Don't recommend crossing here as the current is so fast it vibrates your trekking poles - one slip and you are toast. We crossed in "river shoes" 100 yards downstream where the creek nicely divides itself into 4 streams and walked back up the last sandbar to the trail continuation. Trail gets a little lost crossing the huge river logjam area but is easily re-found. After crossing into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness (marked), the trail is decent enough. Pass some old logging gear and up a stream bed, approach the north end of the lake area after crossing some snow patches and brushy areas. At the "Y", we went right to stay along the lake. The trail is really rough here. We stopped at a campsite halfway down the lake for lunch. Took 3 hrs to get there total. Returned in 2.5 hrs. Not an easy hike but you encounter every kind of trail condition getting there except elevation (thank God). Well worth the effort and adventure.

We began at the north end of Baker Lake crossing the Baker River about a half mile from the parking lot trailhead. We stopped at the bridge over Hidden Creek to take a break and cooled down quickly from the wind coming down the creek ravine. Ther are some huge old growth cedars along the way, one nearly nine feet in diameter.

Our main challange was the fording of four creeks along the way. All of them were close to water falls making the crossing even more difficult. Our destinantion was Noisy Creek Camp where we had lunch and enjoyed the view across the lake of Mt Baker. According to the GPS reading we logged in 10.5 miles round trip which was about a mile more than the book stated. Except for some muddy parts and the streams across the trail, the trail is in great shape. We encountered a few a few trees across the trail but all were easily negotiable

Beautiful day, warm and sunny, got to the trail-head at about 12:30pm and hiked the first mile or so before we hit snow. We continued on the snow in our hiking boots for about half a mile, the snow was packed down and melting, making it pretty easy to hike on. We decided to turn back at this point and enjoy the snow-less part of the trail. We ran into 3 other hikers.

 The hike itself was beautiful with snow at the last 1/4 mile and at the lake. At the lake, we passed 5 young men (early 20's) with a small black dog smoking marijuana. The bummer was when we returned to our car, we found the backseat window smashed in with a rock. Nothing was missing other than an empty bag I had hidden under the driver's seat. While I'd like to say the joke was on them, the amount of damage to my car was significant. I'm not sure if it was that group of guys who vandalized my car, but it does seem coincidental that we were the only people on the trail.

As my workload has been light, I've been trying to go on midweek hikes to avoid the crowds. Last Tuesday, I hiked Wallace Falls and my dog (who was on leash) was attacked by a very large off leash Boxer. I'm wondering if anyone has had similar mid-week hike experiences and if perhaps dealing with the crowds is safer than seeking solitude.

What a great day for a hike! lots of people on the trail and all seemed to be in a great mood. Trail is in excellent condition and ready for the masses. Actually had a pleasent greeting at the top by 3 Mountain goats under the haystack.

Our group split up to hike this valley trail from both the downstream FS Rd 73 (Huckleberry Creek) and upstream FS Rd 7160 (Buck Creek) ends. The trail is open to both hikers & bicyclists, & is in excellent condition, with only a few wet spots. At about 2 miles up from the lower trailhead, we took the steep, short spur up to close views of Skookum Falls, which are roaring now with snowmelt. The trail corridor features lovely old-growth forest, frequent views of the White River, and looks across the valley to Snoquera Falls. We found early season wildflowers in bloom, including calypso orchids. THEM - Olympia.

Outstanding day for a hike. The first mile is a minefield of horse poop. The river beckons in the distance, but you never really get close to it until the end. A few mud puddles here and there and a couple of blowdowns to navigate. This hike is for Grandma and the kids on a Sunday afternoon. Many more hikers on the way back and lots of happy dogs! Took a few photos but nothing worth posting.

Trail is in perfect shape. Great hike with my 4-year old son. Came across a few shady spots to rest in the 85-90 deg. heat. Encountered beautiful wildflowers, butterflies, and a rattlesnake hiding in the rocks.

The road to the trailhead was clear of snow and in good repair. As of Mid-May the snow began about 1/4 mile into the trail, but wasn't continuous until about 1-1.5 miles in. We hiked just in boots to the shelter, where the snow was about 5ft deep, but it was solid and not too difficult to walk in in the morning. After the bridge it got fairly difficult so we put on snowshoes and that helped, but the trail was buried under all the snow and we couldn't find the route so we turned back after about a half-hour. The snow shoes were not essential but definitely helped; by afternoon especially when the snow began to soften. I'd guess the snow is gonna be around for at least another month, at least above the shelter.

Beautiful day! Got about 1.5 mi and were told by other hikers that two bears were up ahead before the lookout, and weren't moving off the trail. We had our dog with us, so decided to turn back. Trail was in great shape.

There is still significant snow on the trail. It is relatively hard packed snow, but the distance involved makes this a serious time commitment so be prepared.

I parked at the Talapus Lake Trailhead and started in at about 12:30pm Monday. The trail was covered in snow before I got to Talapus Lake. From there on it was deep snow to the summit of Pratt Mtn, which I reached at about 3:45pm.
There was no avalanche danger, but there were cornices on the ridge but they were easily avoided. There is one "Bad Step" on the ridge where rock slabs reach the ridge crest. You have to skirt them to the climber's right, it's not exposed but the snow next to the rocks is (as is common) quite rotten so you must place your feet with care. Other than that, a great quick trip to some great views of the Snoq Pass Peaks, plus I could see Mt. Stuart in the distance. I left the summit at 4pm and was back at the car at 5:15pm. Highly recommended, but don't wait till the snow is gone, I suspect the ridge would be annoyingly brushy.