Sugarloaf

This hike was a great season starter for the Wilderness Women Hiking Group. The climb up to Sugarloaf can be a bit steep but the payoff at the summit is worth it. As we stood atop the mossy rocks taking in the views of the San Juan Islands and beyond we were treated to several eye level eagle sightings. Give yourself time to soak in the beauty of this 1044 foot summit before descending to Whistle Lake. The forested trails take you by boulders covered with licorice ferns and an occasional old growth Cedar and Douglas Fir that will make you stop and pause. The trail meanders in and out of lake views so pick a nice mossy rock and take in the serenity this hike has to offer in April. We hiked about 6 miles, but you could make it a longer or shorter as over 20 miles of trails exist. You will want a map to explore this area as different trails and parking lots can make it a challenge.

You can download a map by going to this sight http://www.pnt.org/maps/Whistle%20Lake.pdf Or you can buy a map from area merchants. Go soon if you want to see the Fawn Lillies blooming.