Oyster Dome

Yesterday was a bad day for a hike. Today, on the other hand, was a pretty good day for a hike.

The Pacific Northwest Trail is in good shape aside from a tree hanging over the trail only a few hundred feet from the trailhead. The Samish Connector is pretty muddy, though I think that's due largely to the recent rains. Mud patches and minor creek crossings are numerous, but the trail was not particularly slippery and there were no washouts or slides. Yes, the climb between the erratics and the junction with the Lily Lake trail is very steep, but the views from Oyster Dome are absolutely worth the effort.

As mentioned by others, there is no longer a trail to the Batcave (er, bat caves). I didn't notice the side trail to the logging road mentioned in the hike description.

On the way back, I took a detour to the viewpoint half a mile further up the PNT. This is absolutely worth your time, since it is mostly flat and provides a view of the Skagit River Delta that's mostly blocked by trees from Oyster Dome itself (also of note: a bathroom). If you're in the mood for a long drive on a gravel road, you could skip much of the initial elevation gain and start the hike here rather than on Chuckanut Drive. I may do that next time I have the urge to visit, since the trail ends up there anyway if you head toward Lily Lake from Oyster Dome instead returning to the road.