West Cady Ridge to Benchmark Mountain — Sunday, Aug. 21, 2011

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West

Wildflowers are in the early peaking stage above timberline. Near the summit, some meadows were blue with lupine or yellow with glacier lillies, and the air was full of valerian scent. The weekend of 8/27,28/2011 should be subalpine wildflower heaven, and probably Labor Day weekend also. This bizarrely high-snowpack year, it's more like late July up there. Future readers: normally, I'd expect July or early August to be the best time for flowers. Variable. Visibility should be a major consideration in choosing this hike. The sweeping long-distance views include Baker, Rainier, Glacier Peak, east side Monte Cristo, Sloan, Pugh, and everything in between, and are the prime attraction, so it's a mistake to do this in impaired viz. It is unusually scenic now with the persistent snow on the landscape. There is still some snow along the upper ridge, an insignificant impediment. Two small pools might be used as water sources, but the ridges are (finally) getting a bit dry and the last good running water is from the stream that the trail crosses 3 times before emerging from timberline. Major resources have been put into this popular trail. New deluxe privvy at the trailhead, impressive trailwork in the forest, new turnpike replacing old puncheon. There are still some drainage issues in the higher subalpine sections, but overall it's in excellent condition. This trailhead is notorious for insects, but wasn't nearly as bad as I've seen it. Ordinarily, be prepared to saddle up and get away quickly, do not let the bugs intimidate you. You're bigger than they are. There's a lot of Them. Worst bugs are at the car. Bring DEET. The Index-Galena road has been washed-out for years, so you must drive to Skykomish and then north on the Beckler River road, part paved, the rest good gravel. Bear hunting season starts Aug 1st, these vast meadow areas are prime bear habitat, so expect bear hunters and consider some brightly-colored clothing.