Bullitt Access, Central Peak, Old Griz, East Side, Phils Trail-Thrush Gap Loop

During a break in the wet weather I thought about taking a short hike and was tempted to go to Talapus Lake to get into the snow but looking at the mountains I thought this would not be a good plan so went to Squak for a low land hike.

The trails on Squak were covered with a carpet of Maple Leaves, pretty but also hiding slick stones which did not prove a problem on the hike down. At the summit I met Dick who knew the trails and area quite well. We both decided to hike the Old Griz trail down to the East Side trail and then back to the Mountainside Trail Head. The Old Griz trail is in much better shape than the last time I was on it 7 years ago. It has been slightly rerouted and is now an official trail with a wide tread and good grade.

Squak is mainly a forest hike with limited views. The rain for me held off and I was able to hike in a sweater without rain gear. Work on the trails has reduced mud due to excellent drainage and other improvements. It was a pleasant 5 mile hike with some fall color.