Red Mountain (Commonwealth Basin) — Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016

Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass

3.14 mile (I called it a “pi blocker”) from trail-head, a stream (see the first picture) gave us the first test. It seemed to be impassable. But, we were determined to reach our goal, the Red Mountain summit it is. Didn't take long, about a 30-yard detour to the right (you may be able to see the traces), to discover a passable section. But if you don't have a A). trail map, B). a helmet, C). a pair of gloves, and D). water-proof high heel hiking boots, I may have to say, the pi blocker ought to be a good excuse for giving up. Turn around and proceed with PCT will compensate you with comparable nature beautifulness any way. If you are prepared and/or your determination trumpets, skills and adventurous spirits take the rule now. It takes about one and half mile from pi blocker to the foot of the Mountain. Nice and quiet, pretty and mild. Love it! Then, pretty much like from nowhere, comes with Red Mountain. I certainly feel it is a blessing to walk so close to yet another God's magnificent creation! Trees of all colors, sheet of snow at the top, tanned and reddish beds of rockets...under a pure and clear sky. This last half a mile is not easy. Our confidence diminishes just as quickly as the trail becomes vague (in about a ten of a mile). Even with the trail map, we made three attempts before we finally reach the summit. It wouldn't slow you down if you may stop and look back the track you just take once every 10 or 20 yards -- and adjust accordingly. One last note, rockets are VERY loose. You have helmets, right? Meanwhile, if there are hikers ahead of you, make sure both parties are mutually aware of their presence.