March 5, 2009: Bat Caves, Oyster Dome and Lily Lake (Chuckanut Mountain)

Oyster Dome was a location that I'd kept in mind for quite some time, but hadn't got around to visiting. I don't think I was expecting it to be as enjoyable as it turned out to be.

A leisurely start meant that it was almost noon when I started my hike from the PNT trailhead. The initial mile was a feast for the senses: a really beautiful forest (oh how I wish that I knew how to photograph it), with the scent of pines perfuming the air. Just as the forest lost some of its oomph, first views of the San Juan Islands appeared. Bright sunshine and fleecy clouds made for a picture perfect setting; a bench at the 1 mile mark made for a perfect place to relax and enjoy this.

Then, it was back into dense forest, with ocasional muddy patches. Around 2.5mi into the hike I reached the turnoff for the "Bat Caves"; a small batman symbol adorned the marker. The 'caves' were actually nooks and cranies amongst a jumble of huge boulders. I scrambled quite carefully around and over the boulders, since a light coating of snow made everything quite slippery. A lovely view of Oyster Dome looming high above me was the reward for this bit of effort and a nice preview of my next destination.

Back on the main trail I headed up for a short 0.25mi and then took another left, now for the Oyster Dome viewpoint. I was able to find the place empty and enjoyed the views before a snow shower destroyed them.

Back to the main trail, and then further along to my final destination of the day: Lily Lake. Nice, pretty little lake, and a perfect way to cap the day.

Additional photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/72157614789001451

Cumulative stats:
- Distance: 8mi
- Elevation gain: 2,100ft
- Hiking time: 4.5hrs