Kachess Ridge / Kachess Beacon

Arrived at about 10:45 a.m. and parking at the trailhead was full. The "auxiliary" lot was starting to fill up about 1/4 mile from the trailhead. Hikers should be aware that Kachess Dam Rd. is in decent shape. The road you turn on to get to the trailhead from there is most definitely a one-lane road, strewen with good-size rocks. It doesn't require high clearance, but something to consider.

The trail does climb quickly. The trail guide said something about the trail moderating in angle after about 1 mile. Someone's definition of moderating differs from mine. This felt uphill, all the time. The trail junction described wasn't very clear. On my way down, I think I found it. Heading up, you will cross a very short talus field before coming to it, except you may not notice as the trail to the beacon goes straight, while the (main?) trail goes off right, switching back. And then... the real climbing begins. From there to the Beacon site, it is akin to the haul up Bandera Mountain from Bandera Junction.

All that said... views are as advertised and they get better with every step. The wildflowers are also in fine form. I cannot name all the varieties, but there were plenty. Someone who knows their stuff will really enjoy this right now. The mosses were really lovely, too. Some snow up top but nothing that gets in the way or requires anything extra.

Swung down to Silver Creek on my way down at the very end of the trail. Worthy side trip... less than 1/4 mile upstream is an old dam and footbridge. A pretty spot in the shade to close it out. Was back at my car around 2.