Kachess Ridge / Kachess Beacon

Trail was steep, and then it levelled out, and then we had to climb over some logs, and then we had to walk through snow, then the trail was steep again and we had to climb over more logs and then we broke out into the sunshine and magnificent views. We ate lunch, took pictures, swatted some flies and then returned the way we came. Still had to deal with the steepness, logs and ever softening snow but it was well worth it. Wild flowers all along the way.

Arrived at the trail head about 8:30 am. (following the directions of taking the marked only by a pink diamond on a tree road a mile or so up the Kachess Dam road I found on another trail report) Only one other car in the lot. We had the trail to ourselves all the way up. I am glad we had the early start, most of the trail was in the shade and it was not too hot for the ascent. Wild flowers all along the trail.
    The small amount of snow that was in the forest, flatter area is all manageable. Getting a little soft and postholing to ankles. Big logs to climb over, but everyone was able to, including the short legged one (went under the ones that he could). We took the back trail up and not the scramble route I guess. Took the Beacon Ridge Trail at the junction near the river.
    The top was brilliant. We had the place to ourselves. Wild flowers, mountain and lake views, butterflies flitting around and just a few bugs.
    We met some large parties on their way up as we headed down. More sun on the trail on the descent. Go early in the day.