Trip Reports

Beautiful rainy day winter hike. Trail in great, walkable condition all the way to the beach; only a few small puddles. Took me 30 minutes to walk down the trail to the beach and 35 minutes to walk back up the trail to my car. There are portapotties near the beach. I used the portapotty at the parking lot and it was very clean.

Climbing to the top of the Butte is an thrilling experience!

We parked on logging road 9020 near the intersection with McClellan Butte trail. On the trail, we encountered lots of snow. However, the Butte itself was completely dry. Kazuyo and I conquered our fears and climbed up on top. We were coached on the best route by a very kind and helpful hiker. The views were spectacular! While we were descending from the Butte a set of climbers climbed up from one of the gullys. It was quite a sight to see them make their way up.

This is a terrific hike. While we saw around 30 people on the trail, it is still a lot less populated than nearby hikes. If you go, I recommend traction devices on the way down for the next few weeks and lots of bug juice as the mosquitos are out looking for a nice meal.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

I hiked on Tiger twice recently, on 6-20-10 as well as yesterday. The first time we parked near exit 20 off I-90 and began with the High Point Trail to various other trails to Tiger #1, #2 and #3 and then returned by taking the Railroad Grade to Tiger Mountain Trail and Lingering Loop. It was a long, looping and confusing trip. However it was very interesting and beautiful. I usually like something more remote, but needed to stay within cell phone range for work purposes. I found Tiger to be more challenging and enjoyable than I expected and except for the trails near Tiger #3 rarely encountered other hikers.

Yesterday, I had a few hours so I decided to try Tiger Mountain again from a slightly different direction. I took exit 22 off I-90 and entered from the Preston entrance near the DOT facility. This time, I am happy to say, I was confident I knew where I was at all times even though my old map and the trail signs continued to disagree. Also, some trails are not signed and some trails are not on the map. Mostly, I stayed on the trails on the map.

I returned to the Hiker's Hut and was happy to be able to see some of the view, including a vague impression of the city of Seattle.

On the way out, trails included the Preston and Bootleg, and on the way back I took Tiger #1 and an unsigned trail. The forest and flowers were lovely and I saw only one other hiker accompanied by two dogs. Tiger Mountain is a great option if you don't have time or inclination for a long drive.

For photos from 6/25/10: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

For photos from 6/20/10: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Our friend wanted to go on a bike ride so we took the John Wayne Trail from the Rattlesnake parking lot to Garcia Road. Kazuyo and I make a quick trip up Change Creek Trail. What a fabulous trail! It is steep, steep, steep, but has many rewards. We went up to the top of the ridge, enjoyed the view, ate lunch and scampered back down.

The John Wayne was full of hikers and bikers as well as the usual rock climbers. The trestle bridges are spectacular and it was fun to see Mailbox, Dirty Harry, Web, Putrid Pete's Peak, Defiance and Bandara from another perspective.

There are many side trails official and unofficial off of the John Wayne. I look forward to going back to do some more exploring.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

On the way to the Peak, we went up to Dirty Harry's Balcony via the Birdbox Trail and stopped at several other balconies along the way. This route has the advantage of avoiding the lower portion of the endless logging road trail. The views and varied terrain make it more interesting as well. However, this unofficial trail has many confusing forks along along the way. Most of the time we took the left fork on the way up. Go this way if you have plenty of time to explore and have some route finding skills.

The logging road trail often resembled a rocky creek. We perservered. We made it to the peak and gazed at the lower Granite Lake far below the precipice as well as the peaks lining the distant Middle Fork Valley. Given the snow, we did not find a spot to view to view the upper Granite Lake. Our other disappointment was that we failed to find Dirty Harry's abandoned logging truck.

In spite of the fabulous weather, we did not see many people on this hike. We saw many interesting things along the way: old bird houses, mysterious signs, fabulous views, craggy cliffs, wild flowers, billowing clouds, a bit of sun and a hiker in a bikini. (I was so shocked, I failed to get a photo of her!)

See photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Even though the weather promised to rain and no one was available to go on a hike, I decided to go on an excursion not far from civilization.

I started out late and took my time. There was a light mist in the air and foliage was fresh and green. I took as many photos as I liked since there was no one with me to get impatient with delays.

There was little snow on the trail until near the top of Bandera. I shared the peak with another group of hikers during lunch who left quickly as they were getting chilled. The usual spectacular views of the I-90 corridor were totally obscured.

To add a little adventure to the day, I traversed the ridge and intersected the trail at the divide. There was a lot of snow on the trail until the lake. And the rain increased to a steady downpour.

The rain, clouds and mist on the lake did not deter me from taking too many photos of the trees, ice and boulders. Mason Lake is so beautiful, no matter what the weather.

To see my photography excess: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

We saw much variety on this hike: tumbling creek, waterfalls galore, serene lake, mountains covered with snow and fog, flowers, big old trees, skinny young alders, huge boulders, numerous cliffs, rain and more rain, some sun and even a goat! The goat sighting was above a waterfall near the small peninsula on the west side of the lake. It was so fun to see a goat at Goat Lake!

The hike itself is pretty easy and would be a good one on which to take friends in reasonably good shape as it does not have much elevation gain. The problem is refraining from incessantly taking photographs. There are so many beautiful and interesting things to photograph...

It is obvious I did not exercise self restraint: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

We went up Mt. Washington on the new trail and looped back on the old. Given that we don't much care for maintained logging roads, we preferred the new trail section. However, we enjoyed the views up the I-90 corridor from the old trail, the views of the Middle Fork Valley from the new trail and the views of the Cedar River Watershed from near the summit. We saw less than 15 people on the trail. Plus, the drive was short and we had a 45 minute lunch on top by ourselves complete with chocolate cake and sun shine intermittantly throughout the day with only one brief rain sprinkle. It was a wonderful day!

For photos and more details about the trip: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

I took a group from work on a hike to Barclay Lake. All were non-hikers, but found themselves enjoying the trip. This trail is an easy introduction to the wonders of hiking: moss covered trees, noisy creek, interesting bridge, lovely wild flowers, impressive mountain peaks, peaceful lake, etc. On the way home some of us stopped at Eagle Falls. I was surprised to find such a lovely falls right there beside Highway 2!

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Since it was a lovely spring day, we wanted to go high, get some views and have a little adventure. We got all that even though we did not reach the top of Putrid Pete's Peak.

As we neared the summit, we realized we really needed crampons and ice axes. We sat in the sun, ate lunch, enjoyed the panoramic views of the I-90 corridor and considered our options. The snow was getting softer by the minute in the sun. Reluctantly, we turned around. After kick stepping down the steep, steep snow down to safer areas, we did controlled glissades through the trees for awhile. Since we did not return the way we came, we became somewhat confused about the route.

After playing "drunken bunny" as we slipped and slid down through the steep forested hillside, we finally intercepted the trail. For a bonus, we took a side trail and rested a bit on a rocky outcrop above the freeway before returning without further incident to the car.

For more photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Raining again! We experienced rain varying from mist to deluge until we were almost back to the car when the rain stopped and the sun came out. But the falls were fantastic and the lakes were lovely.

We took the logging road trail from above the upper falls to Wallace Lake and then on to Jay Lake. Our plan to bushwack to Shaw Lake was thwarted when the flagging we were following led us to yet another logging road, drat it! The Greg Ball Trail on the way back made a nice loop.

Given the inclement weather there were very few people on the trails and logging roads. We slogged through "bonus" lakes on the roads and trails and while there were quite a few mud holes, the tread was mostly in great shape. Even though we got a little damp and got a little tired of logging roads, we enjoyed ourselves.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Since it was raining and visibility poor, we decided to go to Tin Cup Joe Falls. We were disappointed to learn that the Middle Fork road remains closed at the Taylor River intersection. So we turned back and went over the Gateway Bridge and hiked the five miles to Cripple Creek. Last time I was on this trail I was on a mountain bike and it seemed much shorter! Since the rain varied between deluge and downpour for most of the hike, the trail was muddy. Trillium were everywhere but in most cases were bowing their heads to the rain.

The fickle power of nature is evident on this trail as we passed several slides. The river is attempting to consume the trail at several locations. And the earth has traveled down the hillsides and moved boulders and enormous trees. This is a new enhancement since I was here last and is quite awe inspiring.

We found the faint trail up Cripple Creek. It starts near the creek sign. This trail often disappears in the brush. Trees have fallen on the trail, and then fallen again on the detours. We crawled over and under and around countless fallen trees and wallowed in the brush. After both our raincoats got torn on the many branches blocking our way, we finally came to the falls.

Very impressive! We ate our lunch by the lower falls in the pouring rain. In deference to my hiking partners schedule, we decided to forgo climbing up to the upper falls. Thus, I must look forward to another bushwack battle as I really want to see them close up.

We did not see anyone on our way out and saw one lone hiker at about the half way mark on return. Near the trailhead, we saw a group of three hikers. And, as is usual, the sun made an appearance on way home. Near the freeway, a rainbow appeared.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

This trip has everything: views, mountains, lakes, creeks, falls, snow, mud, moss, trees, flowers, wildlife, steep trail and logging roads, lots of logging roads. We started at the hidden trailhead off the Middle Fork Road shortly before the Big Bridge over the Snoqualmie River. There is a wide spot along the road with room for about three cars on the other side of the road. The trail starts on a logging road hidden from the road behind an earthen berm.

The trail begins by going through thick glades of skinny alders and branches off the logging road after about a half mile. I don't have a GPS and neither the road or trail is on my Green Trails map so I am guessing. The trail travels steeply through the woods. Someone has spent a lot of time building this lovely trail. Many thanks to whoever this benefactor is! There are lots of moss covered stumps and second growth trees. Trillium are everywhere as are the woodland violets. In a few places they cover the moss carpet on the forest floor.

Abruptly, the trail ends at the Granite Creek Road Trail near a sharp bend in the road, about a quarter mile from the bridge crossing the creek. In the morning, when we passed by, someone had somehow clambered down the steep embankment to the creek and set up tent by the creek. (On our return trip the tent was gone.)

Granite Creek can be glimpsed through the trees along the trail. After the bridge, the road leaves the creek. The road crosses many creeklets some of which have large enough drops above the road to qualify as falls. Soon after the bridge, the snow began.

The snow got deeper and deeper as we climbed. Kazuyo found the road incredibly boring and was almost ready to turn around and go home! But she perservered and was eventually rewarded with the lovely views of Upper Granite Lake. The air was still and the mountains around the lake were reflected in the water. Beautiful!

We ate on the shore of the lake and while eating, rain began. It rained very hard for at least an hour. We left the upper lake and began the trek to the lower lake. Even though the Granite Lakes are at 3,100 and 2,950 elevation the snow was close to two feet deep and full of holes between the brush, logs and boulders. We kept falling into holes up to our thighs in the driving rain and laughing hysterically.

Eventually we found the lower Granite Lake, snapped our photos to prove it, struggled back to the road and returned the way we came. I want to come back and do some more exploring in the vicinity if I can get Kazuyo to agree to endure the boring logging roads that are part of the bargain in this area.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

On the spur of the moment we changed plans from going on a hike a long drive away and decided to try something off the Middle Fork Road. I had read a report on a back door route to Granite Lakes and decided to try to find it. We went out the logging road that heads right just before crossing the big concrete bridge. No luck. We traveled to the end of the road and while we found artifacts of the Middle Fork past, we found no sign of a trail heading up toward the Granite Creek Road Trail. After slogging back and forth on a futile quest over and under numerous blow downs, we gave up and decided to try the back door route to Green Mountain.

Immediately after crossing the big bridge, a trail heads down to the river bank. This trail has obviously been the object of someone's love and attention. At first the trail goes through a beautiful forest of mossy trees containing a few giants that somehow escaped the loggers. Then it travels over ridges and connects with a logging road for awhile. Then back into the forest and again on a logging road.

Finally it connects to the CCC Road Trail. Then travels left a short distance to the logging road that leads up to Green Mountain. The farther we traveled the deeper the snow became. At about 2,500 feet we encountered three snow shoers whose tracks we had been following. We stopped at about 2,800 feet, ate lunch and started the return trip. We were post holing in over a foot of fluffy snow. I would have liked to make it to one of the promontories, but since we did not have snow shoes we decided against continuing.

On the way back we were surprised how quickly the snow was melting. Near the end of the trail, we crossed paths with Jim, the person who had written the report about the back door to Granite Lakes. He gave us directions and a lot of encouragement about our hiking endeavors.

Only four people today!

PS: We followed Jim's directions and found the trail for which we had searched in the morning. We will be back another day!

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Boulder River trail meanders above the river for over four miles with very little elevation gain. We experienced snow, rain, sleet, hail and a few minutes of sun shine. The temperature hovered around 38 degrees. The trail was sloppy with snow and mud. Given the unseasonable weather we were surprised to encounter over 20 people and four dogs.

The trees, boulders, logs, hillside, every solid surface is encrusted with moss. Several beautiful falls tumble down rocky cliffs on the other side of the river. Many creeklets cross the trail enabling us to periodically wash off the mud we accummulated from the trail.

Near the end of the trail, there are a few "blow downs" that are not difficult to go around. The main difficulty was the mud! We had several opportunities to hear and feel the sucking sound of mud trying to remove our boots.

This is a beautiful, easy trail. This trail is a good one to take someone on as an introduction to hiking (in better weather).

More photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Our destination was Eagle Lake, but first we had to go to Barclay Lake. The trail to Barclay is a pleasant stroll through moss and lichen laden trees and boulders with little elevation gain. Baring Mountain was spectacular with it's fresh dusting of snow. Near the end of Barclay is a toilet sign and a bridge. On the other side of the bridge is the steep old trail to Eagle Lake. It climbs and climbs past a tumbling stream and through many boulder fields well marked with cairns. We encountered snow that kept getting deeper as climbed until near Eagle Lake it appeared to be about four or five feet deep. However we did not need snow shoes or traction devices.

At lower levels, the trail to Eagle Lake braids up the mountainside. I recommend staying to the right and following the pink or orange tape.

Eagle Lake was beautiful and very peaceful. We had the lake and the lovely views all to ourselves as we ate lunch. Given the popularity of Barclay Lake, we were surprised to only encounter sixteen people all day.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

The sun was shining when we left Seattle and the day promised to be beautiful. We had not been to Lake Twentytwo before and since the hike to the lake is short and the drive to it is also relatively short we decided to try it. Along with all the other dozens and dozens of hikers, wanna-be hikers and their dogs.

The trail winds through beautiful trees in the lower half and has many tempting falls nearby. There are so many falls, and in the absence of Lakes One to Twentyone, we decided the origin of the name must be that there may be twentytwo falls along the trail! We took several of the side trails down for a better look at some of the falls.

The lake itself is frozen and several inches of snow are packed on the boardwalks and trails around the lake. Except for around the lake, most of the trail is snow free. We went all the way around the lake and found a charming spot in the sun for lunch. And then returned to the car in little over an hour.

This is a good trail to go on when you are starved for human and canine companionship. Babies whining, children squabbling, teenagers shouting, squads of friends yak yak yaketing, dogs barking and all the friendly greetings from the passing parade keep one from feeling alone in the world, that is for sure!

But the real trajedy of the day was that I forgot to re-insert the battery in my camera! So I was forced to be in a beautiful place and not take photos. Very difficult. However, my friend took plenty and she promised to provide me with a few. She also generously shared her camera and let me take some photos so that I did not suffer too terribly from camera withdrawal.

All in all, this is a pleasant hike with many lovely things to look at along the way. Go early to avoid being trampled by the crowds.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/
 

Since it was Sunday and the first day of daylight savings time, we decided to do something short and sweet. Thus we chose Lake Dorothy. Plus, we had never been there before.

While the trail was short, unfortunately the drive was not. On the way to the trailhead, during the last couple miles, our car was the first to break trail in several inches of snow. On the way back, we got caught up in the weekend traffic returning to Seattle. Note to self: Do not hike off of Highway 2 on Sundays.

The sun was shining brightly in the morning but gradually faded as the day worn on. The recent snow was often slushy in the lower elevations. Lots of icicles formed along the trail. The many, many steps, low bridges and numerous other trail constructions were often obscured by snow, however, I could see that a lot of work has gone into this trail.

While we wore snowshoes, we only needed them on the trail above the lake. And now that we have worn a trail in the snow, I suspect yak trax will be sufficient until the snow melts unless you want to travel on beyond to the other lakes on this trail.

Dorothy Lake is lovely in snow but I bet it is even more lovely in the summer. The charming little islands dotting this lake don't show to best advantage when both the lake and the islands are covered in snow.

We turned around at the creek at the end of the lake after eating lunch in the warmth of the sun. When we returned to our car, we found one other vehicle in the parking area. This must have been the wonderful people who cleared an unpleasant blowdown from the trail while we were hiking on the trail above the lake.

This was a beautiful short hike with a long, long drive.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

We wanted to avoid crowds we expected to be thronging our usual haunts along I-90. We also wanted some adventure. Thus, Blanca Lake!

The drive took over two hours from north Seattle. The trip itself is beautiful with many peaks tipped with snow, trees caked with moss and rivers rolling along the road. When we arrived, sadly, there was another car at the trailhead.

Sufficient snow to put on microspikes was present about an hour up the trail. Shortly thereafter we switched to snowshoes. There were some boot tracks but those faded pretty quickly. We followed the snowshoe tracks of someone who seemed to know where they were going. At Virgin Lake, rather than leading us down to Blanca Lake these tracks led us up the ridge toward Keyes Peak. Somewhere around 6,000 feet we decided eating lunch was a good idea. It was breezy, but we sat in the sun and savored the spectacular views of endless peaks before us. Behind us Blanca Lake far below was hiding it's storied turquise waters in a thick blanket of snow.

Since we did not have an ice ax we decided not to continue up to the peak. We returned to the car without seeing another person. We are looking forward to returning again and going down to Blanca Lake itself.

For more photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

We climbed to the top of Mt. Tenerife, taking the trail heading straight up the mountain from near Kamikaze Falls. This trail is unrelentingly steep. Ocaisional small switchbacks gave no relief. Snow and ice started a few hundred feet from the top. While on top, Ranier played peek a boo with the clouds. In spite of some clouds, the views were lovely. The snow and ice was very slippery and even with microspikes, climbing down was a challenge. By the time we got to the bottom my knees were mush. In spite of that, I much prefer this trail to the seemingly never ending Tenerife Road Trail. Someone has done quite a bit of work on this trail since we here in the summer. Thank you, whoever you are!

For Photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Two user built trails connect the Mt. Teneriffe Road Trail with the Talus Loop Trail. The Talus Loop Trail is the wide loop trail that is part of the Mt. Si Trail. The lower connecting trail heads off to the left at about 1,400 feet on an old logging road. After a pleasant half mile or so the trail connects with the Talus Loop Trail. Less than a half mile later the Talus Loop leads to an intersection with another old logging road that starts the upper connecting trail. A few hundred feet later, the connecting trail leads back to the Mt. Teneriffe Road Trail. Round trip back to the car at the School Bus Turnaround is probably less than 5 miles. This would be a great trail run as it is relatively flat, with few obstructions. On a pleasant Sunday afternoon I did not encounter anyone on the connecting trails. However, there were a number of parties on the Mt. Teneriffe Road Trail and the parking area was over flowing to the road. For more photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

This is a short intense hike with a big pay off on the top of the mountain--views forever in every direction. The trail is user built and hard to find. It sneaks off the side of a side road off of Road 5510 and goes straight up the mountain with nary a switchback. This is a wonderful hike when the weather is great and you don't have much time. Today was the day for Humpback! It was fabulous!

for more photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

We decided we wanted to try something adventuresome without the crowds we experienced in some recent hikes. Rainy Lake Trail met our expectations and more. We saw no one else and what with getting slightly lost a couple times and a headlight deciding to fade out we got our fill of adventure.

Snow was present only after nearing the lake. The climb over the final ridge to the lake was a challenge. We tried going up the the area where we thought the summer trail was. That did not work very well and after zigging and zagging for longer than we wanted we finally made it over the ridge. Our trip back over the ridge was much more straightforward. On the way to the lake, I highly recommend staying to your right on the way up and then veering to the left when you near the top of the ridge.

While crossing Rainy Creek on the way out was easy, on the way back, with only one weak headlight between us, it was tricky. Luckily, the spot we chose to cross the creek led to the trail on the other side.

There are a lot of downed trees to go under, over and around, and if you don't want to get muddy, this is not the trail for you!

The lake was rainy of course, but beautiful. Rainy Creek rushes noisily over boulders close to the trail most of the way and many amazing falls can be glimpsed from the trail. It is easier to view the falls in the winter without the presence of deciduous leaves. The best views of the most spectacular falls require bushwacking down to the creek. Our goal was the lake, so we did not take time to go down to the falls. I want to go back some day and focus on the falls. They are so lovely.

PS: My hiking partner urged me to add that this trail is challenging physically and mentally. It is steep, long (everybody seems to estimate the distance to the lake differently) and filled with obstacles. Plus, the trail can be difficult to find at times.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

We parked at the Alpental Parking lot and followed the South Fork Snoqualmie River. (The map calls it a river but it looks like a stream to me!) After passing Source Lake we climbed the avalanche chute to the pass. We traversed the ridge above Snow Lake. The wind and snow had blasted the trees into strange and wonderful shapes. After lunch, we descended the avalanche chute to the Source Lake Trail. After the intersection with the Snow Lake Trail we grew tired of the noisy hordes and descended to the river again. We followed the river to the parking lot. The snow was crusty and icy. Temps in mid 30's. It was a lovely loop with great views and a wonderful work out.

For more photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

The day started out cloudy and rainy so we decided to go where there would be views close to the trail. Denny Creek Trail to Melakwa Lake was our destination. Luckily someone hacked an opening in the snow pile that had been blocking the Denny Creek Road when we tried this trail a couple weeks ago. We parked by the campgrounds where there were a couple other vehicles and headed up the icy road to the trailhead.

At first the trail was partially clear with ice and snow patches. Very soon, icy snow covered the trail. The Slide Falls were beautiful and so different than in the summer. We continued on. Alas, when Keekwulee Falls came into view, we decided the avalanche danger was too great to allow us to continue as planned to the lake. There was about 6 inches of wet snow piled on an icy layer underneath. Wet snow was continuing to fall. Reluctantly we turned around.

On our return to the Slide Falls we encountered the only other party we saw on this trail—a group of adults and children playing in the snow on the rocks. We returned to the campground and ate our lunch by the river.

Since it was still early we decided another hike was necessary to meet our hiking needs. Off we went to Kamikaze Falls. (Kamikaze is found by taking a side trip off of the Tenerife Road Trail.) We were horrified to find the construction of the new trail is seriously damaging the old trail. The new trail is a boring, rocky, wound in the forest. The old trail has mystery, challenge and beauty. Progress in this case is disheartening indeed.

Kamikaze Falls was an exquisite cascade of water. It made up for the pain we felt at the sight of the disfigurement of one of our favorite trails. The trail to the summit of Tenerife beckoned, but we did not have enough daylight left to continue on that steep challenging trail. Another day…..

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

In spite of the incessant rain, Kevin, Kazuyo and I parked on the logging road above the John Wayne Trail and started up the McClellan Butte Trail. Parking on the logging road cuts off 1 ½ mile of trail travel. There are trail signs on the logging road so it is easy to find the trail. The logging road is in pretty good shape and so is the trail. (You can find the road by taking exit 38 and driving parallel to I-90. Shortly before on-ramp to I-90 east, take the steep gravel road to your right. Cross the John Wayne Trail and keep driving until you pass the trail signs. There is a good spot to park just past the trail signs.)

We knew we were in for a long sloppy slog so Kazuyo and I wore our plastic rain coats from Lowe’s. We stayed nice and dry.

It started snowing after we climbed above 3,000 feet shortly after we encountered ice and snow on the trail. Kazuyo and I put on our treasured Microspikes and Kevin put on his YakTrax.

In spite of Kevin’s trepidation we crossed the first avalanche chute. Shortly before we came to the second avalanche chute we met another party who turned back. They believed the second chute was too dangerous. That was enough for Kevin so we too turned back. We were passed by about 20 hikers after we turned around. Some were properly equipped; however, some had no business being out on the mountain as they lacked traction devices, waterproof clothing, packs or poles.

We got back to the car, had lunch and convinced Kevin to go up to Dirty Harry’s Balcony. The Dirty Harry trail is the very worst trail along I-90. Water runs down the rocky, root and branch strewn trail much of the time. It is easy to trip or twist an ankle on this trail!

There was very little view from the Balcony. But Kazuyo and I were happy to have two hikes in one day.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

When our plan to go to Melakwa Lake was thwarted because the road was not plowed, Kazuyo and I decided to go to Annette Lake instead. The trail was very, very icy. I was very glad to have Microspikes. Kazuyo was wearing YakTrax. (On the way home, we went to REI so Kazuyo could get Microspikes too.)

Even though there were several cars in the parking lot, after we crossed the John Wayne Trail, the footprints on the trail revealed only two other hikers. They were wearing crampons. We were happy to walk in their footprints across the avalanche chutes. There were several steep icy sections in which Kazuyo’s YakTrax were really not adequate. Fortunately she made it across without incident.

Annette Lake was lovely with aquamarine water. The peaks surrounding the lake were shrouded in fog. We enjoyed having the lake to ourselves as we ate our lunch on the shelf above the lake near the beginning of the trail to Silver Peak. As we were departing the lake, the wind came up and a bit of snow fell.

On our return trip, we met one lone hiker who proudly displayed his crampons and ice ax. Wise man. Not too far from the trailhead we met a couple that were sharing one pair of YakTrax between them. We warned them about the conditions ahead. They scoffed at us and continued on. I wonder how far they got.

It was a beautiful day. The only bad thing that happened is that both our cameras went dead so we could not take our usual excessive number of photos! If you go on this hike soon I recommend crampons if you have them. Microspikes are okay too right now.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

Kazuyo got a new pair of snowshoes so we decided to try them out going to Mason Lake. We headed out the Ira Spring trail but had to bungee our snowshoes on our backs as there was little snow at the trailhead.

To make things more interesting we took the old Mason Lake trail which heads up the hill side shortly after crossing Mason Creek. The higher we went the deeper the snow. We got off track only once! This was a miracle because the old trail can be a little hard to trace even without snow.

We put on our snowshoes at the boulders and after much huffing and puffing finally made it to the lake. Mason Lake was lovely as usual. We took the Ira Spring back and did not need the snowshoes as the trail was well packed down by those who preceded us.

It was a lovely day.

For photos: http://www.flickr.com/[…]/

We wanted to go to the top of Kaleetan Peak but started out too late for that. But getting up to Point 5700 was a thrill in itself. Point 5700 is the highest prominence on the way to Kaleetan. (Sorry if you think I misled you by including Kaleetan in the title of this trip report, but Point 5700 was not one of the options. You will see this point between Melakwa Lake and Kaleetan Peak if you look at any map.)

The fall colors were spectacular. Even though Denny Creek did not have much water flow, Keekwulee Falls was lovely and Melakwa Lake was more beautiful than ever with the autumn colors rimming the shore. After crossing the log bridge at the Pratt River outlet from Melakwa Lake, we turned left at the first toilet sign. We followed that trail to the second toilet sign. Immediately before the second toilet sign we turned right and gained 1200 vertical feet in about a mile up to Point 5700. The trail braids through rocks and trees and heather and reveals views of the lakes below and the mountains all around. Mere words can not describe the view from Point 5700. The mountain peaks and lakes go on forever. It was fun to identify all the peaks we have already been to the top of and those we plan to go up soon.

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We decided to hike up Putrid Pete’s Peak. We thought if a man with two small dogs (Foxterrierguy) can get up it, we can surely do it too!

The morning was foggy but the weather reports promised the sun would emerge midday. At the first hair pin turn on the Ira Spring trail, the user built trail angles to the left. The trail is actually quite nice as it switch backs steeply up through the forest. We appreciated the instructions to stay to the right and go up as there are a number of trails angling off to the left. After emerging from the trees, the trail seems to disappear in the rocks. We kept climbing straight up and up through the fog. Eventually we picked up a trail that led to the base of the summit area.

As we scrambled up the rocks, all of a sudden through the fog a fantastic view of the craggy peak and the sharp edged ridges on either side burst into view. The fog seemed to roil up to the edge of the ridges and fall back. On the I-90 side the fog was thick. On the other side, the view went on forever.

We found the summit register and signed in. Then we climbed down to the ridge and traveled toward Mt. Defiance. On the ridge, there is a trail of sorts which becomes more distinct as one gets closer to Mt. Defiance. However, the trail seems to disappear shortly before it intersects with the Mt. Defiance trail. We stayed high on the ridge, found the Mt. Defiance trail and traveled to Mason Lake.

There was a profusion of mushrooms of every description on these trails. We missed the turn off to the old Mason Lake trail and so took the Ira Spring trail back to the car. The fog did finally clear after we passed Mason Lake so we were able to look back and see Putrid Pete’s Peak, the ridge and Mt. Defiance as we climbed to the saddle above Mason Lake.

It was a beautiful day.

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We decided we needed a hike that is a little easier on the knees. So we chose Commonwealth Basin trail to Red Pass thinking if one of us wanted to avoid steep trails, they could turn back at the camping area near the creek crossing. As it turned out, nobody wanted to miss anything, so we all went the distance.

We met Helen Thayer and her husband Bill on the trail. They were on their way to Stevens Pass. Helen disparaged Red Mountain, saying it was a boring walk to the top. However, she cautioned us to avoid summiting Lundin Peak without ropes.

We also met a young man named Ben who said he was care-taking at Goldmeyer. He came up the old Pacific Crest Trail to Red Pass and then traveled with us back to the trailhead. He was on his way to Snow Lake and then back to Goldmeyer via the Rock Creek trail. What fun! Ben claimed the old Pacific Crest Trail is in good shape with only a few blow downs and occasional “widow makers.”

After lunching at Red Pass, we trekked up to the first false summit of Lundin Peak. Heeding the advice of Helen Thayer, we did not attempt either of the two additional summits. We examined the old, theoretically abandoned Pacific Crest Trail heading down steep switchbacks into the North Fork Snoqualmie River valley toward Goldmeyer Hot Springs. We looked longingly at the summit of Red Mountain, but agreed this was not our day to clamber up that! The rocks were almost visibly sizzling in the heat of the sun.

On the way back we chose to take the “abandoned” trail back through the Commonwealth Basin. This trail seems quite a bit shorter than the new trail. The creek was low enough for easy crossings. The views on this old trail are limited to the beautiful forest on the upper section. The lower section stumbles down rocky washed out gashes through regrowth of clear cut. If it is lovely views you want, take the new trail. For speed, take the old trail.

The views were glorious throughout the day, though visibility in the distance was poor.

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Since we needed exercise we decided to go up to Mailbox Peak. The trail has been improved since I was here last. But it is still steep, steep, steep and full of roots, rocks and slippery spots.

At the top, there was a crowd of people but as we ate our lunch the crowd subsided and the clouds cleared somewhat. So we ditched our packs under some bushes and took off over the ridge toward Dirty Harry’s. It was a fun scramble over and around the boulders until we got stopped by an impenetrable wall of trees. The branches were so thick we could not push our way through. And since there were steep cliffs on both sides, we decided to turn back. Next time we go to Dirty Harry’s we will give it a try again from that side. Maybe there is a way around the trees we did not see.

On the way back we passed several different groups of people who obviously had no clue what a challenge this hike is. The gloom and doom sign at the trailhead made no impact. Maybe they can’t read either.

The mailboxes were stuffed full of stuff and there was a fireman’s hat too. If it is solitude you want, don’t do this hike. But it is great for exercise and has terrific views at the peak. And the mailboxes add a whimsical touch.

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The sun was shining but the wind was blowing a hissy fit! Took the Ira Spring Trail, intending to climb to the top of Bandera. At lower elevations the wind was just a whisper, but after leaving the old logging road trail and starting the serious climb, the wind picked up. At the fork in the trail where the choice was to climb to the top or continue on to Mason Lake, I went a short way toward the top and turned back. Several gusts almost picked up and sent me tumbling. Reluctantly, I decided to leave the summit for another day and continued to Mason Lake. The snow accumulation continued to grow. Lots of people and several dogs were on the trail. Most stopped at the top of the ridge to admire Mt. Ranier and the snaggle tooth of McClellen Butte and then turned back. I continued on to Mason Lake. The wind blowing off the lake at the outlet was exceedingly fierce. But I found semi shelter near some rocks and had my lunch. Gusts occasionally pelted me with plops of snow and there were plenty of ice crystals flurrying about. I continued on to Rainbow Lake (frozen) and started toward Island Lake. There was plenty of snow, (8 inches or more) and wind but nary another traveler. I turned back at my agreed upon time of 1:30 PM. In spite of lingering to take photos, adjust gear, talk with other hikers, etc., I made it back to the car before 4 PM. Yak trax on the icy section below the ridge top sure were helpful. I highly recommend them.

This was a lovely hike for an early winter day.

This hike has everything I love: it is remote, has fabulous views, beautiful forest and waterfalls and we did not encounter a single other person on the trail. First we drove about 20 pot-holed miles on Forest Road 56 along the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River. We parked at the gate near the Dingford Creek trailhead. Then we rode our mountain bikes about 6 miles farther on Road 56 to the bridge across the river near Goldmeyer Hotsprings. After crossing the bridge we turned right on Trail 1003 and traveled a short distance past the front entrance to Goldmeyer and around past the side entrance to Goldmeyer to the log bridge across Burntboot Creek. Immediately after crossing the creek a faint trail travels left along the bank of the creek. After the trail leaves Burntboot Creek it becomes more distinct. This is the old Pacific Crest Trail that was “abandoned” when the Kendall Katwalk was created. The trail climbs switchback after switchback up a ridge. About an hour up the trail, off to the left is a beautiful waterfall where Goat Creek tumbles down a high cliff.

In spite of the fact that the Green Trails map and the Alpine Lakes Protection Society map do not contain this trail and a sign near the trail entrance notes it is “Not Maintained”, we found it very well maintained and easy to follow. There were only a few blow downs and those were no trouble to go around. After climbing continuously for about 2 ½ hours we emerged from the old growth forest on a rocky knoll on the ridge where we ate lunch. Our lunch spot had 360 views with Red Mountain and Lundin Peak up ahead, Mount Thomson and Mount Price and the Mid Fork Valley off in the distance. My friend was having trouble with one of his feet so I took pity on him and reluctantly agreed to turn around. It took abut 1 ½ hours to get back down to our bikes stashed in the woods near Goldmeyer.

My original plan was to go as far as Red Pass. Last year I glimpsed this trail from Red Pass from the 1033 trail that travels through Commonwealth Basin. This old trail switchbacks up to the pass through scree fields. I will have to come back another day and try again, perhaps late next summer after the snow melts.

If you desire solitude, adventure and beauty, this hike is for you!

A couple weeks ago, while examining Green Trails maps during the tedious ride on Road 56 to the Dingford Creek trailhead for a mountain bike ride, I noticed an abandoned trail up to Rainy Lake. I resolved to try to find and hike that trail.

I headed out Sunday morning after traversing Road 56. My Subaru seems to tolerate the potholes and washboards pretty well if I keep the speed down to 20 to 25 miles an hour and dart between the worst of the holes.

After parking in the Middle Fork parking lot with only three other cars and crossing the Gateway Bridge, I turned right. A sign on the far side of the bridge points left toward the main trail. Going right instead, I passed yellow Caution tape hanging down by the edge of the trail. Then a collection of downed trees partially blocked the trail. Turning back toward the bridge, the spires of Garfield Mountain loomed out of the mist.

After slipping through the downed trees, one passes through a section of beautiful forest. The river is singing over the rocks. The trail wends through moss bedraggled trees and under brush. Almost every surface is spread with green.
 
After the moss garden, the trail comes out of the forest to the river bank. At this point, one can make a sharp left, pass through a small pile of underbrush and follow the gravelly wash. Or one can travel 20 feet or so on the river bank to a break in the brush and follow the gravelly wash. The trails converge and travel perhaps a 1/4 mile to a rocky wall next to the river. Here, the trail goes left up the first of many steep root stair cases.

After another short distance, the trail forks shortly before Rainy Creek. One way to describe it is to say “Go straight.” Or, one can say, stay with the left fork. Then travel through a short gravel wash to the bank of the Creek. Hop the rocks to ford the creek and join up with the Rainy Lake trail traveling along the creek. If you travel right instead you will find two additional trails leading across Rainy Creek, one of which uses log bridges to get across the creek. Take your time in this area as it is very confusing.

To summarize, there are three trails across Rainy Creek. The two trails closest to the Middle Fork River converge again on the trail following the Middle Fork River which terminates at the Pratt River Trail. The trail to Rainy Lake is the trail farthest from the River. Use of the word far in this context may be misleading as all these options are very close to each other. Perhaps when the leaves on the vine maple and other underbrush in the area fall, these alternatives will be more visible. There are no signs.

After one wades across Rainy Creek, the trail to Rainy Lake initially hugs the creek. Then the trail climbs relentlessly. There are dozens of root staircases, several major rock scrambles, innumerable small stream crossings and continuous downed trees to climb over, under and around. There is one large section where pink tape leads around stacks of downed trees. This is a trail that has not heard of switchbacks. There are numerous areas where one slip could lead to falling hundreds of feet.

For the first few miles, the forest is very appealing second growth. Then all of a sudden the trees are much older. All the way, Rainy Creek is making a mad racket rushing over rocks and around downed trees. Nearby mountain peaks can be glimpsed between the trees. Mushrooms of every kind poke up everywhere.

Just when I was ready to give up, Rainy Lake glistened below. The trail drops abruptly to the rocky cirque. There is much to explore around this lovely lake. It is well worth the trip to see it. It is a good idea to leave early enough so that you have plenty of time to investigate.

Even though this trail is not maintained by the Forest Service, it is pretty easy to follow. Also, someone is keeping the brushy areas trimmed. Wish they would bring their chain saw with them to cut out some of the tree fall. It took me five hours to get up to the lake and three and a half hours to get back down. One of the best parts of this trail is that I did not see one other person the whole day!

Another tip: If you miss the first connection with the Rainy Lake Trail and continue with the trail following the Middle Fork, after passing some small caves in the cliff facing the river, you will notice some pink tape luring you to the left up a steep hillside. Some of the tape is labeled 5/18/08. This tape will lead you back to the Rainy Lake Trail. However, this route is a real bushwack. There are lots of sneaky holes in the forest floor trying to swallow your feet and scratchy branches to tangle up in. Don’t follow this route. The other way will save time, energy, ankles and knees.

Since there are no official signs on this hike, no official maintenance, lots of tree fall, regular flooding and lush undergrowth especially in the first section of the trail, conditions in this area change from month to month. What I experienced, may not be what the next traveler finds. However, Rainy Lake is lovely, lovely and the journey to get there is great fun! I highly recommend this adventure.

This is one of my most favorite hikes! I have to do it at least once a year. This trail is not on most maps and not mentioned in any guide books I have seen. To get to the trailhead, take the Hyak exit off I-90, follow the road that parallels the freeway on north side, after the paved road turns into a gravel road, travel about 1 ½ miles, take a left on a smaller logging road. It is shortly before the Mt. Margaret trail parking area. Follow the logging road a couple miles, maybe three. The heavy rains in the past couple years have not been kind to this road. Several spots have wash outs so go slow!

At the point the road makes a hair pin curve and starts to travel up steeply, there is a small parking area on the left. This is the unmarked trail head. The elevation here is about 3700. After a slow start on the remains of a logging road, the trail climbs through the trees near Rocky Run creek. You must go look at the creek falling down the rocks near the trail. About a half mile up the trail is a turn off to Lake Laura. Don’t miss Lake Laura! It is enchanting! A large rocky peninsula reaching into the lake appears to be an island. I have not been able to find a decent trail around Lake Laura to the peninsula/island, but it is worth bushwhacking through the brush and the short climb to the top of the island. There is a charming camp site out of view of the trail on the far side of the peninsula. There are also some great rocks to jump off into the lake.

Continuing on up the steep, steep trail, pass the intersection of the Mt. Margaret/Twin Lakes trail and shortly thereafter come to Lake Lillian. It is only a little more than a mile from the trail head, but the trail is so steep it feels longer! The elevation at Lake Lillian is about 4800. Shortly before arriving at the lake, there is a side trail off to the right that climbs up above the lake. Or, one can clamber over the enormous boulder on the right on the lake shore. I usually take the trail on the way in and the boulder on the way back. There is a delightful camp site on the trail above the lake. Three flat top rocks are stationed around a stone fire ring.

Continue around the east side of Lake Lillian traveling toward the ridge above the lake. Now there is an even steeper climb up to the top of the ridge. Once there, fabulous views take your breath away! Every where you look there are mountain peaks! And a profusion of wild flowers of every color and description.

After the first tarn (which is lovely), you have a choice as to which side of the ridge to take. On my way in I take the east side with great views of Box Creek valley and many mountain peaks beyond. Travel approximately a mile over rocky outcrops and meadows to the first glimpse of a glittering blue jewel--one of the Rampart Lakes. Follow the steep trail down, down (watch out for the loose gravel) to the lakes, elevation 5100. Today there were more than a half dozen tents with numerous noisy happy campers dispersed about. Some were swimming in the lakes. Even with all the people, solitude was possible given the many lakes scattered among the rocks. Rampart Lakes are truly magical!

After a multitude of pictures and some snacks I was ready to return. On the return trip I took the precipitous trail on west side of the large south lake. It is extremely steep and rocky. Very much like climbing a huge staircase to the sky. The views back down to Rampart Lakes are astonishing.

The pass on the top of the ridge is the highest point on this hike, about 5800 or more. The views are unbelievable in every direction. Unfortunately, mosquitoes took advantage of pauses to take photos. Then the trail goes down, down, down past a couple exquisite tarns, noisy creeks and flowers until intersecting the trail on which I came in.

Getting back down the trail to Lake Lillian can be a challenge to accomplish without falling on one’s rear. The trail is dusty, sprinkled with loose gravel and treacherous. And the trail from Lake Lillian, down past Lake Laura, and on to the car, can be precarious as well. It always seems easier to go up these steep trails than it is to go down them. There were a few more tents around Lillian on my way back than there were on the way in, but it was still much less populated than the Rampart Lakes.

These trails have been boot built and are not officially maintained or marked, but it is easy to find to find your way. I do not have a GPS and Green Trails and other maps disagree as to the elevations. No matter, take a map and enjoy yourself. There is more beauty, lakes, tarns, creeks, waterfalls, boulders, flowers, mountain peaks and views on this hike per mile than most other hikes. Round trip is less than 8 miles. Go soon! You won’t be sorry.