Zig Zag Trail — Sunday, Jun. 2, 2013

Snoqualmie Region > North Bend Area

Following the marked trail above Hall Creek was much easier when it's not covered in snow, and footing was much better all the way to the top. The last rise to "Hall Road" and the primary intersection of the three forest service roads was a completely different area when bare. Taking the middle of the three roads first led towards the nearest 'summit' and was an easy hike except for the quarter-mile westward portion (prior to it turning south) where the trees had not yet raised. As the bases were still covered in snow, the were aimed horizontally or diagonally across the trail, crossing from ankle to face height. A good deal of work was required to get through or over the trees. Around 200m of snow was crossed in two main patches on the southbound section, but the ground was bear around the truck. Today was forecast as mostly clear, but I saw mostly clouds and fog. Views from the truck saddle were those of being inside a cloud, with none of the nearby mountains visible. The second path chosen was the southbound fork of the roads, and afforded much better views to the west. There were three picturesque waterfalls active, the third of which seemed to be a spot where the road was supposed to split westward toward Hall Creek. This spot seemed to be washed out, and I was unable to find that road once on the south side. Heading back up hill from that point, the trail was eventually blocked by a large tree, and I decided not to go through it. The general topography of rock outcroppings is much more interesting on this segment of the mountain range, compared to the Hall Point / Change Peak area. Hall Point is visible to the west, along with some other very enticing peaks that may or may not be accessible with a long-day's hike off the forest service roads in that valley. During the summer months, the Zig Zag - "truck summit" trail could be a simpler alternative to the Great Wall Trail, benefiting from the shade in the morning.