Trip Reports

we only stumbled across this waterfall--and it is dramatic!

the trail is a bit steep--a bunch of switchbacks that descend to the base of the waterfall. but the volume of water was roaring, with huge sprays of refreshing water.

fisherman try this spot, but i saw no evidence here.

easy to get to and well worth the short visit.

Great trail! We hiked the 6 miles in to the McAllister campsite and encountered few problems. The trail is washed out/muddy in a couple of areas, but nothing serious. It's nicely shaded for the most part and the thundering river (you call that a creek?!) provided nice cool air breaks. We were warned of bears in the area (the snow pack is forcing them closer to the campgrounds), but didn't see any. The campsites were in great condition and there was ample wood for the fire. There were also ample bugs, so bring your bug-off weapon of choice (we're still itchin' away). Things got pretty damp at night as we set up camp near the river, so bring your long johns for the overnight. The trail is in great shape (except for the minor washouts) and pretty soft/springy in areas. All in all, a great hike!

Decided to take a look at Packwood Lake. The road is paved all the way to the trailhead where there is a large parking lot. Due to our late start, we didn't arrive at the parking area until 10:30 AM and there were quite a few cars in the lot at that time. The trail itself was in pretty good shape. We took the upper trail to the lake and were surprised to see a little snow in the shadows. Lots of people at the lake which included both overnighters and dayhikers. Enjoyed lunch at the lake and decided to go back along the lower trail. This trail is shorter and less hilly than the upper trail. It is open to motorized traffic though we only saw one motorcyclist the whole way back. One nice thing is that the lower trail has some tremendous views of Mt. Ranier and the Cowlitz River valley which the upper trail doesn't have. The bad thing is that at the end of the ATV trail there is no easy way back to the parking lot except to loop around to the main road and climb back to the parking lot. Good hike.

Fleetfoot and I got a late start so we headed for Mason Lake. At exit 45 off I-90 go under the freeway and head west for 3 miles. At the parking lot we decided to go up Bandera and then down to Mason. Started hiking around 2 o’clock in bright sun. My, how the trail has changed! Very nice work by the VOW but I am stuck in my old ways and prefer the way it was. I am sure it will get many more advocates for the wilderness so I guess it is a good thing. Hope they do not go all the way to the top with that wide of a trail. With full packs in the heat of the day we took our time to admire the plants and flowers. The work party was on their way down and we knew there would not be many more hikers to follow. The last couple passed us just before the trees on the left, which they said held snow. I was ready for some cold snow on my knees. Instead we made the saddle and decided to camp there. One day hiker past us as we were resting so we delayed going further for a while to give him time at the top. Fleetfoot packed his pack for a day hike and we proceeded up. Day hiker was on his way down just as we got to the top. Only this is not the true summit and not having been there we thought we would give it a try. It was probably about seven o’clock now but we expected the night to be bright. The sketchy part was just past the normal turn around area. At one point on the north side there was a large slab with a drop of about ten or twelve feet and snow on the down hill side. However, there were many branches over hanging this rock and it made for a tough transition to the snow field. We did not check the south side out until on the way out. There was sign of trail but a much more exposed slope if you slipped on the way down. From here it was ok. We went back and forth from the north to the south side all the way up. We used the snow on the north side as much as possible and switched to the south when the snow did not look good. About halfway to the false summit between Bandera normal and true summit we saw what I thought were cougar tracks and then scat that was old. Fleetfoot found a small bone is this. From this false summit we had to drop down quite a ways on the south side to make the true summit. The final hike up the rocks to the top was very nice. Great views here but not much different than those at the false summit. A long break here to identify peaks in the near distance as far away peaks were being closed in with clouds. We headed back to camp around 8 o’clock. On a snowfield near the false summit we spotted more cougar tracks. This time one track was in Fleetfoot’s boot print. As we neared the woods down to the saddle there were lots more cougar prints plus really fresh scat. Arrived at saddle around 9o’clock and fixed dinner. We cooked on the snowfield over looking Mason Lake then hung our food in a tree. We watched the sunset. Nice colors reflected in the clouds. A very full moon was bright. Only saw one star before going to bed. The temperature was very nice through the night. Low clouds in the morning gave us no reason to get up early so we slept till almost eight. After a lazy breakfast and filling the water bottles we headed down to Mason Lake. We dropped down the west ridge where we encountered footprints which we followed almost to the lake. We took a break on the hill at the outlet to take some layers of clothing off. On the other side of the outlet we stopped so Fleetfoot could take a swim. First of the season. Not me! It was still overcast but the sun started to poke out just before we left. It was tempting to jump in but this old body wants a little more sun then we had. Two guys that had been fishing headed out just before us. No fish biting. They must have gotten up real early.The lake and shore should be snow free in a day or two. It is melting out fast. We got as far as the new trail before starting to see people going in. At the waterfall on the road we retrieved a couple of sodas and enjoyed them along with the cool breeze from the falls. From here back to the car there must have been 12-15 more people going in. Back to Seattle by 2o’clock. GREAT WEEKEND!

Getting there: Drive the Suiattle River road about 21 miles and just after crossing Downey Creek, turn into the TH parking lot. With a Ptarmigan traverse trip coming up, we decided to hike the Downey Cr. trail to see what the trail conditions and the crossing of Bachelor Creek were like. We found the Downey Cr. trail to be in pretty good shape compared with what it’s been in previous years. There are many logs down but only a half dozen or so pose any difficulty getting by. The problem logs are mainly between mile 1 and mile 2. The Salmon Berry is now grown and covers the trail in places (better hope its dry). There is no snow remaining and from the looks of things, Bachelor Creek should be snowfree at least a couple of miles. There is a small half-rotten log across Bachelor Creek, which will do (the creek was running and high requires a log). A few flies are out but not bad, but in a few weeks probably be more.

Left TH on Saturday morning and reached camp pretty quickly as it is only about 3 miles. Lower part of coleman glacier is starting to break up, with small breaks that will be revealing larger crevasses.

Left camp (7200') @ 3am and reached the saddle (9000') around 445am. Up until that point the weather was fine, but the Lenticular we saw the night before was a good warning to what was coming. Low visibility plagued us all the way to the summit, with 2 small 1 minute windows that let us see the Roman Wall to our left as we ascended the Deming Glacier to the summit. With 3 rope teams of 4 we were able to safely wand the route. Many teams turned around on the Coleman side, but we saw many from the Easton side reach the summit the same time we did. No views at all from the summit, with only a few 30 second sunbreaks. Reached the summit at 720am. Left 15 minutes later and reached the saddle quite quickly only to find better visibility. Once we got lower on the Coleman Glacier, the summit opened up quite a bit - so many others must have had a better summit view than we did. Full TR and images to come soon at www.nwog.org

The trail was clear and well maintained with the usual mud puddles in a few spots. The last 1/3 mile was still under snow but easily traversed. The lake itself was 80% ice covered but still worth the climb.

Last week, we decided to try an evening hike to Colchuck Lake and planned it for Saturday evening. Given the relatively reliable weather in Leavenworth in June, we figured to have a great night for a hike, and mother nature did not disappoint. We left Seattle at about 2:40 PM, and were slightly dismayed to find the 520 bridge closed - as it turned out, that closure served us well...

We arrived in Leavenworth around 5:15, bought our one-day parking permit, and headed up Icicle road and made the trek up eightmile road with the 4 wheel turned on. Front wheel drive has always done fine for me in my car - in Shawn's truck, rear wasn't so great. The road was a little washboarded, but not bad compared to others.

After packing our daypacks, we hit the trail around 6PM under partly cloudy skies cool temps as the mountain evening air began to set in. From the trailhead to the lake, the mosquitoes were relentless. The hike to the junction is in excellent shape. Past there, things get a little dicey in the usual spots, with a pretty wide stream (ok, a heavy trickle) crossing (mostly just rock hopping or tree balancing with a slight change of getting feet wet with a misstep) Also some mud in spots.

At the lake, we arrived in time to have our snack and watch the alpenglow arrive on Dragontail. It was really a fantastic sight. The breeze off the lake really served to cool us quickly, and the warmer layers found their ways out of our packs and on to our bodies. Neither the extra layers nor the slight breeze did anything to deter those little bloodsuckers... I guess that's what we get for a June hike in the evening.

After the alpenglow and some more feeding of the bugs, we began our descent into the crisp evening air. Actually, the temperature was quite pleasant just below the lake. Coming back down, we stopped briefly at the first rocky spot with the views across the valley to the west (where the stream fed by Stuart Lake flows) The sky was alive with color - we couldn't help but pause and take in the scene as the brilliant orange hues gave way to the softer pink glow, and then near darkness.

The remainder of our descent, with headlamps donned, was uneventful. It seemed that even the mosquitoes departed with the sun - they didn't bother us any more on the way down. We arrived back at the trailhead at 11PM, about 5 hours round trip.

Overall, the trail is in excellent shape for the amount of use it gets. There are a couple blowdowns closer to the lake, and there is a section of trail that has water running over it, and some accompanying mud, but nothing too bad.

Saturday was a fantastic evening for a hike... and the trail was not at all crowded. We were the last party going uphill, and saw nobody coming down. I've now hiked this trail 3 times, and for no other reason than solitude, this trip was the best. We hiked, we watched the sun go down, and we had a late dinner at Visconti's. (Is there ANYTHING in Leavenworth open past midnight?)

If anyone has any questions about conditions or anything I missed, feel free to email me at ryan3677@hotmail.com

This was the weekend for the BCHW work party up at the Wilcox horse camp. With the help of the forestry Dpt., We add two more fire rings and picnic tables to the Wilcox horse camp. Sunday, 30 of us headed up to the different trails like table top, Lillian Mt., Ellensburg trail to clear the winter down fall.

Man-O-man the trails are in bad shape!! It took 3 of us with two chain saws and 12 hours to clear 2 of 4 miles of trail up on Table top #1209. We must have cut about 20-30 trees that made the trail unpasable for horses and 4strokes. The rangers told us a head of time, that the trails are in bad shape. The rangers just had cleared fs road to Wilcox of the downfall the week before.

As of Sunday June 23rd, all the trails are not fully passable for horse, 4strokes and bikes. The ranges said they would be up there in the next few weeks to clear the remaining trails not cleared by work parties like us.

Bring bug repellent mosquitoes are out to suck blood.

randy

Drove to Cottonwood campground at the end of the Entiat River road Friday after work. Even with leaving early to miss traffic and maintaining good speed, it's still a good 4 hour drive to the trail head from Seattle. Also, unlike many other Forest Service roads, there weren't many non-fee campsites along this road, and Cottonwood was more than 1/2 full by the time I got there, so another reason to get out there early.

Started hiking early on Saturday, hiking trail #1400. First 3 1/2 miles to the Mrytle Lake trail head are clear, wide and well maintained. After that the trail narrows and the maintenance is obviously minimal (sorry, no I-90 corridor trails here), but the blowdowns have been sawed out up to the turn off to Milham Pass, 6-1/2 miles in. The Entiat River is running very high, and is definitely not fordable at the Larch Lakes crossing(5 miles in?). Snowbrushy Creek is also running very high, but crossable on logs. Patchy snow starts at about 5 miles and becomes mostly solid (in the trees, at least) after 6 1/2, approx 4000 ft. From what I could see, the ridges on either side seemed clear of snow, but, due to the narrowness of the valley and the limited sunlight (the sun wentbehind the western ridge at 6:30 pm!), there is still plenty down low on the approaches. The trails to Cow Creek Meadows and Larch Lakes are probably still 2-4 weeks from being snow free

I had seen horse tracks all day, but they disappeared right before the junction with the Milham Pass trail. I knew there was a meadow down below the trail, so I backtracked to the last small creek drainage just before the junction and followed their trail down hill. Found the horses in a beautiful meadow, and the guys who'd been sawing out the blow down, it turns out. It was 80 degrees, heading for 90, and one of them says ""How about a cold beer?"" They left me another in the snow to have with dinner. Thanks, horse guys!

The meadow was clear of snow, and the blisters were big, so I spent the rest of the day there and headed out in the morning. Except for the horse guys, who left mid-day, I didn't see anyone past the Myrtle Lake turn off, which was exactly what I was after. Remarkably, bugs weren't an issue, even with only a little wind. Except for having spent too much money on a pair of boots I can't seem to break in, an excellent trip.

One couldn't ask for a better day of climbing. Weather was sunny, but not too hot. The uphill path was well established, requiring little to no kicking out of our own steps. It was cold and breezy at Muir, especially after the long hike up.

Our squad of skiers and snowboarders got some stellar sliding in despite the somewhat late start and very slow huffing and puffing on the way to Muir. First thousand down was stellar sliding, with a nice corn layer and very small sun cups. From there to pebble creek was a little more mushy. All in all, well worth slogging the gear up.

Only small patches of the trail to pebble creek is clear of snow.

The trail begins at the Carbon River Entrance, on the Nature Trail loop. The only sign reads Trail Not Maintained. This trail is shown on the USGS map, but not on most NPS maps. The distance from the TH to where it crosses Alki Crest at 4500 ft. is only a little over a mile on the map, but with the many switchbacks the hiking distance could be 3 miles. There are a few snow patches above 4000 ft., and we lost the trail at about 4400 ft. It's an easy walk along the ridge to the summit of Florence. Blow- downs of all descriptions are seen, becoming more frequent at the trail's higher elevations. From the Carbon River Entrance to the crest, we counted more than 40 of them. No other parties were seen. There were trilliums in bloom above 4000 ft.

We had great views of Rainier along with Adams and the Dutch Miller peaks, but could not see Glacier or Baker from the first summit. The first summit was partly covered in small trees and the view was actually better from the boulder field below. Th second summit also appeared to be covered by little trees, but maybe you can see Glacier and Baker from there- we didn't go there. The only snow was a small patch just below the first summit in some trees. Beargrass in the meadow below the ridge was spectacular. The steep part of the trail is built on a rock rib and the tread is not too bad, much better than some trails in the Rockies that go in gullies and get washed out badly. Everyone should have to hike this trail to appreciate switchbacks. There is a nice waterfall coming from Mason lake along the first part of the trail, which is wide and flat. While on the trail I was surprised by how few bugs there were, but I notice I have a few mosquito bites today.

With such a beautiful day one just had to play in the mountains. We choose to do Spring Mtn in the N.F. Sauk area off the Mtn Loop Hwy ~20 miles south of Darrington. The beginning of the trail has a half dozen Alder trees down but none pose any difficulty getting through. The salmon berry plant in places have obscured the trail and we were fortunate to have dry conditions. Once the trail enters the timber, the hiking is very enjoyable. One log at 3200' had to be hiked around. We left the trail at ~3750 at a switchback (.5 mile from Bingley Gap) and we headed for ridge crest up steep fir needle covered ground that was slick in places. From the crest, we followed the ridge to the summit. There is one 6-foot step that may pose problems. We were able to avoid the step using snow on the return (there may be another route around but we did not look). We were treated to fabulous views on the summit to Sloan, Glacier Pk, etc. We spent over an hour taking in the gorgeous day. It took 4 hrs up at a leisurely pace and 2 hrs down with a trip gain ~4100'.

The road is still blocked by snow near trailhead due to past snow slide. It took us 20-30 minutes of uphill hiking through the snow to get to the parking lot/trail head.

Most of the trail was clear (95%). The parts that were covered in snow were quite difficult to cross. We took several spills and a couple of places required hand over hand climbing in the snow. The back side (side near Sauk Lake) was entirely covered in snow. We saw 5 people skiing/snowboarding down to the lake.

The snow was melting fast and I expect it to be clear in a few weeks.

At 6:00 AM we started at Rd 9020 intersection with McClellan Butte trail 1015 -- there's room for a few vehicles just up the road. Trying for an early start on a long day of attempting McClellan, Mailbox and Si with no motorized vehicles in between, for a solstice epic. The trail was great where WTA work party had been! Some blowdowns around 2800-3000' then snow most of the way up, with numerous fairly steep gullies to traverse or ascend. Snow was stable on our way up, but ice axes a must. We used mountaineering boots, and took crampons but did not need. The rock at summit was dry and bare. Great views, and warm, sunny weather with a welcome SW breeze. Marmots in the rock. Snow was softening on the way down by 10 AM, with a stream running into one gully under the snow. Several short self-arrests among our party while going down. Early start recommended. From the 9020 road intersection, a switch for most of us to running shoes and hydration packs, then a jog down to X38, up road to the fire training center, and up an unofficial side trail to intersect the Mailbox Peak trail and to the peak. Lots of lupine, paintbrush, beargrass in bloom at the top, where we met 4 hikers with dogs Shadow and Mocha, who have been to many peaks with their lady who gives an Indian call from the top of each one. Trail is dry and decent shape. A snow patch at top for cooling tired muscles. Signed in at the mailbox, and went down the main trail. At the bottom we had bikes stashed, and rode west starting ~5 PM to Mt Si Road and to Little Si parking lot (~6 mi). Took Little Si trail to old Big Si Trail to the haystack, where half the party scrambled to the top while the other half donated blood to mosquitoes. A couple arrived to just enjoy the full moon. Back to the lot at 9:45 PM in the fading daylight, still warm. Total vertical gain ~10,000', loss ~11,000', and 30-32 miles. Tired and happy crew.

My daughter Kellie and I wandered up to Bluff Lake, about a mile and a half and a thousand foot elevation gain. The last quarter mile was almost completely covered with snow. We caught a nice little mess of smallish cutthroat 8-10 inches which Kellie's grandmother will enjoy. Not easy access to the lake itself-often there are a few surprisingly big fish-heck of a nice day and great views to the N on the drive up to the trailhead of Mt. Rainier and Tatoosh Ridge.

I know there have been about a million trip reports written on Heather Lake. It’s a close-in, short hike with a lake at the end of the trail. These facts, coupled with the fact that its neighbor, Lake 22, is nothing special, had kept me from visiting. When weekend plans got scotched by the responsibilities of real life, I thought I’d take a couple of hours and give it a go. I left Ballard at 5:00 pm, arriving at the TH at 6. The road appears to be in decent shape, but there are immense potholes, and you can’t see them until you’re right on top of them. Do the car a favor and slow down a bit when you hit the gravel.

The parking lot had about 20 cars in it, but I passed everyone in the first mile, as I was going in so late. The trail ascends gently and pleasantly through dense forest, and then steepens as the forest opens up. The trail has had work done on it this season by WTA work crews, and is in great shape. About a half-mile from the lake, the trail turns to snow. It’s easy snow travel though, I was hiking in trail running shoes and didn’t get wet feet.

The lake is completely melted out, though the shoreline is still completely under snow. There are impressive waterfalls at the far end of the lake, dropping in from the sheer granite cliffs of Mount Pilchuck. Heather Lake has much to offer. It looks like a fun snowshoe, would be a great place to take the kids for their first backpacking trip, and is recommended for a quick hike after work.

The snow path is quite braided, and on my way out, I was a bit lazy and got off-route. As it turns out, it’s only about 75 yards from Heather Creek to the trail, so I found my way in short order. Nice quick descent to the car.

Indian Creek Trail (near Rimrock Lake) is snow free, cleared of blow-down, and mud free for about 4 miles. The bridge at mile 2.5 is intact, and there is a log jam that makes crossing Indian Creek at mile 4 relatively easy, even with the high flows. Several attractive waterfalls are visible, or can be located near the trail between trail mile 1.8 and 3. There are several blow-downs after the 2nd creek crossing and about ½ mile beyond there are patches of snow that became solid snow at about the 5½ mile mark. Blazes make the trail easy to follow. No sign of recent traffic beyond the 5 mile mark. Wild flowers ranging from several varieties of paintbrush near the trailhead, fairy slipper (Calypso orchid), and vanilla leaf along the lower stretches of trail, to wild strawberries, trillium, yellow violets, marsh marigolds, glacier lilies and many more are blooming up to the snowline. This was a very pleasant hike in 80 F sunshine, along a steep, cascading creek, by waterfalls, through forest and meadow, only marred by a group of 7 horseman who littered the trail with their Marlboro packages, cigarette butts (not crushed), and a generous number Coors Light cans. Mosquitoes are plentiful, but millions more will hatch in the coming weeks. Those who can’t handle bugs had best avoid this part of the William O. Douglas Wilderness until September. There is a reason that the area near the upper end of this trail is called ""Mosquito Valley.""

I set out to do an old favorite which I had not done in 9 years. In the Spring this trip has a noisy creek, great views, nice flowers, a terrific ridge walk, and a neat summit. The day was forecast to be hot so I was on the road by 6:00 am and on the trail by 8:00 am. The trailhead is up the North Fork Teanaway Road, just beyond Beverly Campground. This is a hiker, horse, bicycle, and motorcycle trail. It is best to do this trip when there is still enough snow to stop all but hikers. The first 3/4 mile is nearly flat. At this point the Jungle Creek trail branches off to the left. I kept right and continued to move up the valley. There are 4 creek crossings. The first 2 were fairly easy. There are rocks and small logs to help. The next 2 are a little more difficult. The rocks are very slick. With poles and long legs I crossed with dry feet. The water is not very deep so crossing is not at all dangerous. Now back on the right side of the creek I continued up the valley. The first 2 1/4 miles are very gentle, gaining only about 200' per mile. I noticed that there are many strawberry plants in bloom. When the fruit is ripe that will be a great bonus for this trip. The berries are tiny but very sweet.

With the first switchback the trail changes radically. Now it's time to gain some elevation. In the next 1 3/4 miles I gained 1800' of the 2300' total to Medra Pass. The trail is Mt. Si steep the rest of the way. As elevation is gained the forest gives way to largely open slopes and some trees. The combination of horses and motorcycles means it's a dusty trail. The flowers continued at higher elevations. Even at 9:00 am it was getting hot. I would not want to be hiking up this part in the mid day sun. When the ridge was reached I encountered the first snow of the day. From the ridge the trail traverses left towards the pass. There were still 7 or 8 large snow patches. They were easy enough to cross but they completely stopped any motorcycles from advancing. Another one to two weeks and the trail will be bare to the pass. From Medra Pass Mt Stuart is clearly visible. Most of the other Teanaway peaks to the north are too. Iron Peak is right across the valley. On the other side of the pass Mt. Rainier is in sight. A trail crossed the pass and descends to the Middle Fork of the Teanaway. The old sheep driveway goes right and left. This route has not been maintained in many decades. The ""trail"" goes from good to nonexistent to good again. Be sure to have a map if you go in either direction.

I turned to the right and headed towards Koppen Peak. The pass is 5400' and the summit is 6031'. With ups and downs there is closer to 1000' gained out and back. Even though I successfully found my way to Koppen and back in 1993 I still made a mistake this time. At one point there is a main trail straight ahead and a smaller one turning right. The turn is the correct one. When I started descending and came to a cliff I smartly deduced that I had screwed up. The ridge over to the right looked much friendlier. I backtracked and found the correct turnoff. There is about 2 miles of ridge rambling to Koppen Mountain. The trail is either on the ridge top or just to the left of it. There was one large patch of yellow balsamroot and many other flowers along the way. The route is not one for trail hikers. Along with route finding there are several spots where you must traverse lose rock with little if any ""trail"". Those who are comfortable scrambling in these conditions should have no problem getting all the way to Koppen. Even if you stop short of the summit the views are great. Hawkins and Esmerelda dominate to the northwest. Point 5806 is the last high point before the summit. It is only about 200' lower than Koppen. After dropping down to a low point there is one last steep climb on grassy slopes to the top. Koppen sits in the center of a number of peaks. It is far enough away form any others to afford great views. Jolly Mountain, the peaks north of Snoqualmie Pass, Hawkins, Esmerelda, Mount Daniel, Fortune, Ingalls, Stuart, Iron, Teanaway, Earl, Navaho, and more are clearly seen. You can throw in Mt Rainier and Mt Adams for good measure. I was on top by 11:15 so I had plenty of time to enjoy the day. It was nearly calm on the way up but the wind began to pick up on top. Considering that my thermometer already read 80 degrees the wind was a blessing. I spent 2 full hours on top. One other hiker came up via the trail from Deroux to the north. He mentioned that the upper trail was still buried by snow and he just kicked steps up to the ridge top. The register showed that I was the 7th person and the 4th party to summit this year.

I took my time on the way down. The ridge is so much fun to travel that I didn't want to see it end. I was quite surprised to meet 2 horse riders. They proceeded much farther than I thought horses would go. They were from Winthrop and they told me about the Pasayten and I filled them in on the Teanaway. The rest of the trip down was fairly uneventful. By the time I reached the pass clouds began to come in. I was glad to see them as this was more sun than I have dealt with in nearly a year. Warm is good but I had had enough for this day. The stats were 11 miles and 3400' gained. I added about 100' with my detour. It was more crowded than I expected as I saw 1 hiker on the summit, 2 horse riders, and 2 motorcycles on the way out. As usual in the Teanaway, there were few bugs except for many butterflies on the summit. Photos have already been posted at http://www.kuresman.com. Look under Trips-2002.

Six of us decided to tackle Mt. Ruth as a worthy objective for an overnight backpack/climb. The road to the trailhead is in great shape - any passenger car can easily negotiate the few small potholes that dot the way.

The trail to Hannegan Pass was a slightly different story - many of the creeks had weak snow bridges as the only way across. We all fell through holes at least once. The snow on the first four miles of the trail is melting so fast that it will likely all be gone within a week. The last mile to Hannegan Pass will likely linger for a few more weeks as it appears quite deep and solidified.

As of yesterday, the route leaves the proper trail and ascends a small snow chute. Pay close attention to find where the path rejoins the proper trail on the right of the chute. Follow the trail to a sign post that indicates where the summer campsites are and climb up the fall line to the pass.

We continued up to the pass proper and created a lovely snow camp with a view of Mt. Shuksan and the Ruth Creek valley. The best part of early season mountaineering and backpacking is the absence of bugs. We only encountered mosquitoes at the trailhead on our way out.

The following morning we ascended the snow covered knoll immediately east of the pass and kept to the left of the rock that marks the western terminus of Ruth Arm. We followed ski tracks as we traversed to the saddle at the base of Mt. Ruth. From there it was a straightforward climb up the north ridge of Mt. Ruth to glorious cloud-free views of Mt. Baker, Mt. Shuksan, the Pickett Range, Glacier Peak, and the rest of the North Cascades area.

Glissading cut the descent time to what seemed like a few minutes. We struck camp and walked back to the cars at the trailhead. Total trip length was 14 miles with 4100' elevation gain. Photos of this hike can be viewed at www.dvandkq.net.

I decided to take ""Good 'ol Slasher"" (Daisy) for a little hike after work. Where to go so that she can legally run off-leash and not bother others on a nice Saturday evening? The abandoned road that leads to the Mason Lake trail and to Bandera Mtn. trail fit the bill. The sign at the trailhead that lists the trails in the area that require leashing didn't include Mason Lake. There were only four other cars in the parking lot when we arrived at 7 pm. The road looked pretty flat on the map in ""100...Alpine Lakes"", but I suspected some significant elevation gain by subtracting the gain listed for various sections of the Bandera hike, leaving about 700 ft for this road section. The road is great for easy hiking with a smooth surface and steady grade. There are some open sections with good views of snowy peaks on the other side of the freeway. We passed two people coming down before we got to the Mason Lake trail junction. From there to the beginning of the steep upward ascent to Bandera Mtn. we saw nobody. The return walk was the easiest, fastest hike around since the grade and surface made perfect conditions. Two cars were still in the lot at 10 pm when we got back, probably camping at Mason Lake. Due to a super-bright moon, this trail would be hikable all night without a flashlight. All in all it turned out to be an excellent place to let the pupper run loose without disturbing other hikers or impacting a wilderness area.

Went to Hidden Lake trail head and met Andrew and Dennis for our work party....we loped and sawed all the slide alder and devil's club from the first 1 1/2 miles of the trail and got rid of logs fallen across the trail etc. Cleared a few drainages and rerouted one streamlet that was flowing down the trail. Snow blocks the trail from about 3600 feet on....although there are some patches melted out. The work parties lined up for this week will go somewhere else(no doubt..) and the forest service hasn't yet delivered the wood for the new puncheon so hopefully there will be lots of work later this summer. BUT....the trilliums are blooming and arnicas are out here and there. The birds are singing and the waterfalls everywhere make this a grand trail to visit.

Decided to return to the eastern Olympics for a shot at catching the rhodies in bloom, and we were NOT disappointed! Mount Jupiter was the perfect choice since the rhodies lined the trail from beginning to end, and they are nearly at their peak (not yet fully bloomed at highest elevations). The road to the trailhead has been repaired and was quite easily driven in a Honda Accord. The trail itself was in fantastic shape (a forest service crew was about an hour ahead of us, clearing all of the blowdowns).A little buggy at the trailhead but a steady breeze kept them away on the trail. Just a couple small snow patches (easily crossed or avoided...will probably be gone in a week or 2) The first mile is a nice warm up with some switchbacks up to the ridge. The next 3 miles are relatively level, contouring the ridge (just below the ridge-top) in a cool, pretty forest. In another mile it begins to rise again to the Wilderness boundary line (at approx. 5.5 miles) The last 2 miles gain most of the elevation , and every time you think you're at the summit...you're not! But every step of the 15 mile trip is worth it. Spectacular views. Beautiful forest. Excellent trail. And of course, we could then justify the double scoop ice cream cones at Kingston on the way home!

Hardscrabble Cr. addendum;

Many of the big logs have been removed from the Middle Fk. Rd. as of Friday, June 21. However, a huge pile of avalanche debris still blocks the road at the point where the logging spur heads up into Hardscrabble Basin. It's a major blockage and will need heavy equipment and/or dynamite to remove it. There is a major mudhole in the Middle Fk. Rd. which might bog unwary motorists, especially those with low clearance and no 4X4. On Friday PM the Middle Fk. had decided to flood a portion of the road but this was not a problem to drive through.

We left Vashon on the 7:15 AM ferry and were driving into the Cle Elum Safeway at 9AM to get lunch supplies. We also made a quick stop at the ranger station to buy a new Northwest Trails Pass. To get to the ranger station, take the first Cle Elum exit, go left towards town, then take the first left up a hill (there is a sign), then another left when you pass the park, and it is on your left. Nice folks work there, and they have lots of maps and trails information.

We had a pleasant drive up beautiful Teanaway Valley, with Mt Stuart tantalizing us in the distance. The trailhead parking was crowded by 11 AM when we arrived.

We headed up the trail beside the rushing creek, then took the left onto Ingalls Way, encountering snow 30 feet from the junction. The snow continued off and on through the trees, causing occasional difficulty with trail finding. We missed the junction with the Ingalls Lake trail, possibly because we were doing a traverse up a snow field. The last mile is mostly snow covered, but it is easy to tell where you are headed. We didn't need an ice axe, we could cope with trekking poles. There were two tents on the snow field at Long's Pass and we had a nice lunch staring at the face of Mt. Stuart, with Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens peaking at us from the southwest. We were on top by 1 PM (it's 3 miles, 2100 ft up.)

We plunge stepped and glissaded down in record time. There are a couple of minor blow downs and snow melt on the trail. The lupine is blooming in the valley; glacier lilies, wood violets and shooting stars near the creek; pasque flower and phlox blooming higher up. We saw ravens, woodpeckers, chipmunks and squirrels.

It is possible to drive within 1/4 miles of the normal parking area, snow on the road. The trail is 90+% snow covered, route finding is difficult if you are not familar with the route. Streams are running high and crossings are often on snow bridges, this can be very dangerous. We made it about 1/2 way to where the trail leaves the PCT, stopped by steep snow chutes covering streams, a little too dangerous and hard going for our liking.

Snow effectively all gone, apart from the usual small lingering patch at the bend where the trail makes its closest approach to Windy Lake. This creates no problem whatsoever. Flowers excellent, will probably be even better in a week or two. Some Glacier Lillies and Pasqueflower left. Rhodies nicely in bloom on the approach route, and barely beginning to bloom at the start of the trail.

Trail in excellent shape - no blowdowns, etc.

Road is clear to the trailhead; the trail is pretty much clear of debris and blow-downs for the first two, gentle miles (almost flat). After the climb begins, there are several stream crossings and avalanche debris piles (none of which were a problem in the morning, but be prepared to get your feet wet by late afternoon).

Constant snow begins at the Hannegan camps, around mile 3; there are two options here. Follow the boot track to the right, and you take the shortcut to Ruth Mountain, but you have to traverse a section of 40 degree snow slopes and some scree (we had ice axes, but left them in the packs - it wasn't too bad, but you need to be able to arrest a fall). Follow the boot tracks to the left, and you'll climb to Hannegan Pass and around behind Hannegan peak. This is preferred for most inexperienced climbers, as it is less exposed, and less steep.

The real fun begins on Ruth Arm, with amazing views, clear weather, and easy ridge walking all the way to the summit. Incredible views from there of the north side of Shuksan.

It is a long day, so get there early. We slept in and didn't start until afternoon. Round trip was 8 hours and 2 minutes, 10 miles, 4500 foot elevation gain. Take ten hours, and it will be more pleasant (we also forgot our food, which didn't help). Don't forget sunscreen!

A most excellent day for a hike! First trip up #1014 was a treat. Met a WTA work crew along the way, and they were doing a great job on the first 1/2 mile or so (GPS is dead, can't remember exact distance). Go check it out!

About 1/2 way to the first bridge there is some snow, but easilly passable and only runs for a few hundred yards. By the time you get to the second bridge, it's wide open until after the switchbacks at Keekwulee Falls. The snow there gets deeper and harder to traverse, so we called it a day.

The Tenas creek road is snowfree, clear of blowdowns and has been re-graded in areas. I don`t know if the family wagon would make it but most vehicles won`t have a problem. The first 3/4 mile is extreemly overgrown with slide alder, making travel slow. At around 3,500 ft solid snow cover is hit, although it only lasts a little bit before becoming snowfree again. After climbing next to a nice waterfall the route reaches a flat at 4,000 ft, the beginning of solid snow for the rest of the trip. This area looks like it would be really pretty when it melts out. Boulder lake still really hasn`t started to thaw out yet and snow pack around the lake is still around 3-4 feet. Great snow conditions and even better views from the summit. I figured I would be the first one up this year but was beat by one day. A party of three came up on 6-21-02 via Huckleberry mountain trail. This peak doesn`t get much visitation, the register was put in back in the summer of 96` and is only 2 1/2 pages. For a more detailed description check out Mike Collins report Nov. 18, 2001, also a better route than the Beckey book.

On a beautiful Saturday, we decided go to the eastern Cascade slopes to find some hiking with less snow tha the west. Not feeling exceptionally peppy, we settled on Iron Peak (#1399), 1 mile from the end of the N. Fork Teanaway River Road.

The trail is snow-free from the trailhead (3900') and in great shape. Around 5000', snow patches start appearing but it's easy enough to play connect-the-trail. The flatter part of the trail (5000-5500') has the most snow but travel is still quite easy. At 5500', the way steepens again towards the saddle north of Iron and the snow decreases again on the sun-exposed slopes. Navigation is very straightforward and you can even take advantage of the snow to shortcut some switchbacks without damaging the terrain.

The saddle (6050') itself is covered with snow and has amazing views to the east and west. We didn't actually make the easy jaunt to the Iron Peak summit to the south but I did scramble up and along the ridge north of the saddle to the highest of the three minor summits (6300'). From there, it was easy to glassade down a slope to the east and hike around the corner to the south to return to the saddle. The view from the northern ridge is amazing - Stuart, Glacier Peak, Rainier, and lots more!

On the way down, we encountered an elderly couple heading up. They reported that the Ingalls Peak/Esmerelda Peaks trailhead up the road was a complete zoo but they were the first people we saw all day!

If you don't mind a little bit of walking on snow and stepping over an occasional down tree, Iron Peak is a great, uncrowded hike right now!

Road is washed out 4 miles before the trailhead. Still a fair amount of snow in the Mildred Lakes basin. The two small lakes are snow free, and the large lake is still 50% ice. A couple campsites are snow free at the second (large) lake as well as the third upper lake. Going in we lost the trail after hitting the ridge and had a rough time trying to follow the mapped trail. Coming out, we stayed north of the outlet streams and then crossed below the outlet of the first lake. This proved to be much easier than bushwacking in the snow along the south ridge line. Very scenic hike, but not worth the work for the one night we camped. I personally would plan a longer stay or wait for the road to get fixed.

For the hikers this is a nice trail, for us in the saddle there are a lot of fallin trees. A little snow about 1/2 mile before you get to the lake. Leavenworth does not really like horses so don't expect them to clear it any time soon. The trout are well worth the ride.

A nice walk on a beautiful day. A few lingering clouds were handing around to the east, but they kept their distance.

The trail is dry, with sporadic snow patches, for the first 2 miles or so. Then it's all snow up to the Summerland meadow. Forget the switchbacks, the trail goes stait up soon after entering the frying pan stream meadow area. Stay to the left as soon as you see the glacier, and then enter the woods and look for the steep clearing that goes up to Summerland.

The sun stayed out until about 10 pm (longest day of the year), and then during the evening the moon was so bright that the stars only made a meager showing.

Well, I'll tell you what... this one is not for the children, but if you like to glissade, boy are you in for a treat. (But hurry... the snow's a-meltin!)

Photos will be posted to www.webofsteve.com tonight.

Ken, Mike and I left Seattle about 2pm Friday afternoon and made it to the trailhead somewhere around 4:30. Sunshine was the theme of the weekend, and that evening was no exception. We had the mountain to ourselves, and it was, to date, the second most rewarding hike of my life. (check out my Goat Flats pictures for #1)

The trail on the south face of the mountain (the longest section) was dry, but steep and there were several blowdowns. Not terribly difficult for dayhikers, but our backpacks made for quite an interesting ascent.

We broke free of the forest many times, and for great distances, to walk through what must have given this mountain it's name: green, green meadows. Wildflowers were everpresent, but just beginning to show color, so I look forward to returning to this trail later in the year!

The second half of the hike was the best (or worst, depending on your point of veiw...) as the North and East faces of the mountain as we neared the summit were completely covered in snow. We trudged up what I considered brutal inclines, and arrived at the base of the bowl beneath the Lookout at about 8pm.

The climb to the summit looked positively vertical (and of course, completely blanketed with snow) and we weren't sure the Lookout was sturdy enough to support the three of us sleeping. (Earlier reports warn that the lookout's foundation might be unstable despite all recent restoration work. :( - Hopefully someone will make it all the way and report back to us!)

We knew we didn't have time to make it before sunset, so rather than camp in the cold, snowy bowl, we decided to set up a home on top of the ridge - elevation 5988'; about 500' below and just southeast of the summit.

Stunning views of Glacier Peak, Buckindy and White Chuck Mountain awaited us along a narrow ridge at the top. Beautiful green slopes lay before us the south and amazing drifts of white snow threatened to break off just feet from our tent and go crashing down a vast bowl of smooth snow. (The skiers we passed on our way our looked like they already knew about these bowls, but if you're looking and haven't been here... check it out right away. It looked like it would stay for a while yet, but a few more weeks and ...)

Overall, this is a MUST DO for the seasoned hiker, but it's at least as strenuous as Mt. Si (much more so, of course, if you're doing the snow route.) The hike up took us about 3 1/2 hours, (including a couple of scouting trips - sans pack - to the aforementioned ridge looking for a flat, dry place) and we made it back down in just under 2 and a half hours.

Well, off to plan the next one. Pugh has my interest ... we'll see though! See you out there!

We parked at the Curly Creek Trailhead which is about 4.5 hours from Seattle. Beginning elevation is 1100' and the ending elevation is 1500', but don't be fooled, total climbing elevation is 1500' to the lower falls. 10 miles total. There a few nice campsites up to about 5-7 miles, but nothing after that. We did see a deer and (we are not experts)some possible bear droppings. Generally the trail is a nice, soft, smooth forest trail through some old growth. We could tell that some good souls worked hard to clear the many winter blow downs and washed out spots. There are still some culverts that are blocked, or removed and setting next to the trail. Once these are inplace, the trail will be in much better conditions. Many small muddy areas, but all are passable. One of the nice features at 5-7 miles is some little Gnome/Hobbit villages that are creatively placed at the base of some of the trees. The kids will really like to look the little doors, balconies, signs and even a little dock and boat launch. We did hear that the trail is closed between the middle and upper falls due to a wash out. We also heard that fishing is good in some areas.

Pack Pup (AKA: my wife) and I took a great day hike to Little Lake Caroline. This was the last of five training hikes before we leave for our six-day backpacking trip to the Golden Lakes Loop 6/30/02. The trail to Little Eightmile Lake has been logged out. From there to just before Lake Caroline expect lots of blow downs, but all are fairly easy to navigate around. No snow on the trail until Lake Caroline. Lake Caroline is 80 percent covered with a thin coat of ice. Basin area is melting fast and portions of the trail are visible. Trail to Little Lake Caroline mostly snow free until just before the lake. Little Lake Caroline is 50 percent covered with thin ice. Several usable campsites at Lake Caroline and one good site open at Little Lake Caroline. Stayed at Leavenworth for the night. Much nicer than driving straight home!

After a tasty breakfast at the Maltby Cafe, we headed up to the Surprise Creek trailhead. Travel Highway 2, turning right onto an unsigned road .6 mile past the 58-mile marker. Once over the railroad tracks, bear to the right and drive .1 mile to the small parking lot.

The trail was dry and in very good shape for about the first 3/4 mile or so, where patchy snow began. We passed a group of three hikers and two dogs, on their way to camp at the lake. Snow remained patchy with some muddy spots until about 1/4 mile past the Surprise Creek crossing, where it became solid in the flats alongside the creek.

The creek itself was magnificent -- the water was perfectly clear, and the falls and rapids were stunning. It made for a very pleasant hike through the forest.

We managed to stay with the trail in the flats, despite a couple of blow-downs, but weren't able to pick it up on the ascent to the lake. We met up again with the other group of hikers, but no one was having luck find the ascending trail. They decided to try and follow the map, we decided to follow the creek. Dude, being the agile mountain goat he is, kick-stepped his way up two or three rather steep hard-snow hillsides. Dudette, being less agile, lacking a right ACL and wearing a knee brace, followed more slowly. About 4.5 hours after leaving the trailhead, we finally came to a clearing on the ridge, from which Dude could detect the lake basin. We found a great snowhill overlooking the lake from the north end, and sat down for some lunch.

The lake was mostly frozen over, but was still beautiful, framed by the surrounding peaks. And of course, it was a perfect day from a weather standpoint. The song was wrong -- the bluest skies you ever saw aren't in Seattle, they're in the mountains just to the east.

Dude was nice enough to agree to try and find the real trail for the descent, as Dudette's knee was starting to complain. We made our way - slowly - down one more steep hillside, and fortunately came across part of the trail that wasn't under snow. From there, we were able to stay with the trail down the hillside. It was alternately dry and clear, then muddy, then snowy. There were several smaller creeks to cross, most with little trouble. At one point, a very large tree had blown down the length of the trail, but was avoidable by scrambling down some rocks from the trail above. The trail will definitely need some maintenance once the snow melts out.

Once we were off the hill and back in the flats, it was fairly easy going, except the snow had (of course) become much softer throughout the day, and was more prone to postholing. We again met the other group of hikers shortly before the Surprise Creek crossing. They were never able to pick up the trail to the lake, but had hiked around some more before eventually returning to the creek for camping.

Made it back to the trailhead after a 2.5 hour descent. Will probably come back in September, to see the areas of the trail we missed. All in all, a good day of hiking!

Glad to be spending time with Cap'n Calm on this incredible first day of summer. Overcoming injury for my first outing this year. This is the only sensible way to the Squire Creek Pass area since landslides wiped out access from RD#2040. There is no trail sign, only a wide spot in the road. This trail has had some amazing maintenance for the first time since I tried it five years ago. WTA and the USFS should be applauded. Perhaps we need to encourge them to finish the trail to the pass. The first 1000' are steep but clean. Then the fun begins. Be ready for bushes, windfall, mud, routefinding, more bushes and plenty of snow above 3400'. Blazes on trees are helpful, wands would have been better. At some point we just headed straight towards the mighty and feared Point 4879. I think we took the steepest route up, maybe to 50 degrees. Great views of Dakobed and Koma Kulshan, with the Three Fingers-Whitehorse massif right in my face. Plenty of slabs to play on. 7 miles R/T, 3000' gain, almost six hours away from the car. <BR> [Online Editor's note: Much of the work was done by the Access Fund with support from WTA and the USFS. You can be certain we will be working on it more in the future.]

Construction going on at the end of the road near the Rattlesnake Ledge entrance. Hiked to Cedar Butte. Not a cloud in the sky which is nice for a change. Great views of Mt Si and Washington. Lots of bugs and wildflowers. Lots of orange and red salmon berry. 1 big black bear seen on the road to the trail. Not sure what it was doing, eating the berrys I suppose. I stopped and was trying to get my camera out but it was gone. Lots of noise bashing through the watershed area. So many wild flowers out right now. Mountain blue berry and huckleberry are starting in some areas, at least on Cedar Butte.

Lee and I headed over to the Teanaway County for a scramble climb up Bill's Peak. Only one other vehicle in the parking lot as we started up the trail. Bean Creek is flowing fast with lots of snow melt from up above as we crossed it going on the Beverly Turnpike Trail. Before getting to the junction with the Fourth Creek Trail there were a few trees down and some snow patches across the trail. Once up at the pass and jtc. with the 1226 trail, we head cross county for Bill's Peak. NOTE: In the book, ""75 Scrambles"", the directions for Bill's Peak are incorrect. The info in the book leads to Mary's Peak. Bill's Peak is west of the Fourth Creek Trail.

About the last mile of the scramble is on snow, so an ice ax is needed going up and down the slopes. The summit is snow free and on this clear day the views were grand. Mt. Rainier to the south, Mt. Stuart to the north and hundreds of peaks in between. We signed the summit registor, put there by the Mountaineers, a brass tube with a screw on lid holds the registor book. We were the second party this year to summit Bill's Peak. Two other guys had been up the Saturday before us. If you enjoy scramble climbs, check this one out.

At the bend in the old Mason Lake Road (2270 feet), a well-built unofficial trail heads west towards Dirty Harry's Balcony (Point 2613, 47d26'02""N 121d36'44""W). There is a junction with another trail to the left at 2370 feet; it appears this trail begins at the road from Exit 38 off IH-90. There is another junction at 2760 feet. The main trail continues up slope and the trail to Dirty Harry's Balcony descends slightly to the left. From this point, the trail gets fairly rough with narrow tread, fallen logs, brushy spots and deep creek crossings. After two miles, this trail intersects Dirty Harry's Road. This road is steep and in good condition all the way to within a few yards of the summit of Peak 4680 (aka Dirty Harry's Peak, 47d27'03""N 121d37'14""W). There are a few muddy spots and fallen logs. Snow patches appear at 4120 feet and the summit is mostly snow-covered with a few bare spots. Miner's lettuce, vanilla leaf, purple violets, lupine, bleeding hearts, Canadian dogwood, beargrass and salmonberry were in flower. Pikas were heard. Sky was clear with moderate to warm temperatures.

Thanks to whoever built the alternative trail from the Mason Lake Trailhead to Dirty Harry's Balcony. The more options that are available to hikers will undoubtedly reduce the impacts on the more heavily-used Talapus and Snow Lake Trails. Even if businesses are abandoning the area, the people aren't going away!

The Norse Peak Trail is in fine condition up to the junction with the Goat Lake Trail, but after that it quickly turns into a snowy mess.

Take WA 410 to just north of the entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park, and hang a left on Crystal Mountain Boulevard. Follow that for four miles to the first spur road on the left, numbered 410. Park your car on the right side of the boulevard and walk up the spur, past a gate, to the trailhead. Trail 1191 climbs gently, first through beautiful forest but eventually turning into sunny meadows. It got up to the mid-eighties in the lowlands today, and it felt hot on the parts of the trail where there was no shade. At 3.6 miles you'll come upon the junction with the Goat Lake Trail. I proceeded up the Norse Peak Trail for about another half mile until I surrendered to deepening snow fields, backtracking back to the junction. The Goat Lake Trail is navigable to a pass. If you are looking to make your way to the top of any summit as a consolation prize for not making it to Norse Peak, go up the hill on your left. You'll reach excellent views of Rainier, Adams, Crystal, Stuart (I believe it was Stuart, but I'm not positive), and the Goat Lake Basin. Kind of let down about not making it to Norse, but the views along the way more than make up for it.

Hiked the Taylor river road bed to Otter Falls where our group spent Friday night. Small campsite, but pleasant. Hiked the next day to Snoqualmie Lake. A few snow patches in the last half mile, and need to watch the trail at one point where the river flows through the trail and you need to follow the cairns. The lake is still 90% frozen over, no sign of little fish interested in feeding after the long winter. Past Snoqualmie Lake, the trail appears to be all in snow. There is one dry camp near the outlet, very nice. Very few bugs, and few people yet. With the bulk of the Taylor River trail being on an old road bed, I had forgot ten how much harder a road bed can be on your fee t than a springy forest trail. Even though it is flat, it can be hard on your feet. Wear comfortable shoes for that portion!!!!!

Beautiful, clear, sunny day today, perfect for hiking Bandera (kind of like Antonio Banderas, just not as sexy). The ridge is now mostly clear of snow; only the small wooded area midway up the ridge has snow, and it is easy to get over, no poles or ice axes necessary. (I have to confess, however, that like most people i only went as far as the 5150 hump, not the true 5240-foot summit... close enough, I say). It was my first time there, and I understand that it is a new trail which is much more civilized than the old one. I'd hate to see the old one, because this trail is really steep. But there's no brush, so it's no problem as long as you have good knees. From the top I could see that Mason Lake was mostly thawed, but I dont know whether the trail thereto is. Lake Kulla Kulla, Island Lake and Rainbow Lake were all still frozen.

Aside from about half a dozen blow-downs, and a bit of snow a few hundred feet below the old lookout tower site, the trail was quite clear. The snow is melting fast and should be nearly gone by the weekend. No need for ice axes or crampons or even gaiters any more. The views are great.

We tried to extend the trip by going from the old lookout tower site to the real Dirty Face summit two miles away, but deep, steep snow on the descent to Dirty Face Lake halted our progress.

Deception R. T. (Raging Torrent) was worth the trip all by itself. It is five pounds of stream in a two pound streambed. Part of the trail at the start is actually now in the river. No problem to get by, though. A short way in is a very tall and long log bridge with a splendid log staircase leading up to it. The next two miles of trail gain about a thousand feet of elevation at a moderate grade with very few switchbacks. The trail then drops slightly to Sawyer Creek and another log bridge. The patchy snow kicks in at about 3,000 ft, 2 1/2 miles from the start. I continued past Sawyer Creek to the campsite next to Deception Creek at three miles. Gaiters kept the modest post-holing from being too annoying. This hike is fantastic: large trees in vast quantity, huge boulders guarding the path, peekaboo views across the valley, and the above-mentioned Raging Torrent. Best of all, no one else used this trail from two pm till nine pm. The few blow-downs were detourable, a couple of streams threatened to wet my socks (I escaped unharmed), and the snow wasn't a problem. A better day than yesterday!

Marten Lake is located in the Taylor River watershed, a tributary of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River. The lake is a big, beautiful body of water surrounded by scenic granite cliffs that would attract a horde of people, except that the ""trail"" leading to it is just a boot-beaten route that has not seen official maintainance in years, if ever. I'm surprised that the forest service gives the ""trail"" an official number (#1006).

On my jaunt up there on June 20th, I found that the lake had melted out and significant snow remains only within a quarter mile of the lakeshore. However, these drifts are quite deep and will linger for a few weeks yet. The high country is opening up, finally! Jay

The south end of Kachess Ridge is one of our favorite spring flower hikes. This year we were a bit early. I'm guessing the spring bloom will peak in another 2 weeks or so.

Note - there is now a new and improved place to park for the Silver Creek trail (#1315, also called Kachess Ridge trail) and Easton Ridge, Domerie Divide, Thomas Mtn, etc (#1212). Leave I-90 at exit 70 and zero out your car's trip odometer. Cross to the north side of the freeway and drive west on the frontage road. At 0.6 miles turn right onto the Kachess Dam Rd (#4818). At 1.6 miles turn right by the ""trail"" sign onto a smooth gravel road. At 2.2 miles park by the ""trail"" sign.

The Silver Creek trail quickly climbs 1,200' and then enters the hanging valley at about 3,550' where the grade lessens substantially. This is also where the snow starts. Soon we were on a good 2 feet of consolidated snow. Between the blazes and saw cuts, the trail is fairly easy to follow. Just before the trail crosses Silver Creek there is a sign where the Beacon Ridge trail (#1315.3) forks off to the left.

Once upon a time this trail was officially constructed but it has not been maintained for years. We began climbing to the right on snow and following the blazes. Soon the trail curves left a bit, climbs thru an open area and heads straight for the side of the ridge. Where the trail hits the side of the ridge it turns left and begins to climb. Oddly enough, from this point on the Beacon trail is about 80% snow free (and thus fairly easy to find at this point).

The bad news is that there are a number of substantial trees down on the trail. The good news is that years ago some kind soul lugged up an axe and cut boot notches to help one scramble over. (Hey - you wanted to get away from the crowds - right?) Despite infrequent use, the trail tread is still fairly easy to see.

The Beacon trail goes to the site of the former ""Radio Tower"" at 4,615' shown on the Kachess Lake 7.5"" quad. Shortly before this point we left the trail and made our way to the saddle immediately to the north. This is where the meadows start. From here we rambled north (no real trail) through meadows, rock gardens and occasional bands of timber to point 4,884'. Continue out onto this rock outcrop until you come to two small trees and an easy scramble down to the left. The next high point at 5,194' is our usual turnaround. Although there are sizable snow drifts in places along the crest of the ridge on the lee side, they are easily avoided.

Joey

This peak has been seen by everyone who lives in the Seattle area. It lies due east of Kirkland and is the brain-shaped peak on the western margin of the Cascades, SE of the South Fork Tolt Reservoir. It is Pt 5535 which is incorrectly labelled McClain Peaks on many maps. Take I-90 east getting off at Exit 31. Drive north into town and turn right at the stoplight just past the railroad tracks. Turn left two blocks down at Ballarat St. Take this down four miles where and turn left at a ""Y"" which will be the start of the North Fork of Snoqualmie Road. Stay on this road, No 57, until taking the left branching road, No 5730, about 18 miles up. 19 miles from the start of the North of the North Fork of Snoqualmie Road there will be a spur road, No 113 on the left. Take that west for about 1 mile. On the right is a steep jeep track which is marked (at present) with an orange flag. Walk up that road several hundred feet until you notice the gravel beneath you is turning red. This is the tailings of the now abandoned and collapsed Blackhawk Mine. On the right is a pile of small logs which is the start of a bootscarred path up the logged slope of Phelps. Having left your car at 2,600' (we drove a Subaru without any trouble) the plan is to travel NW toward the saddle between Phelps (Pt 5535) and McClain (Pt 5162). Old growth is encountered at 3,300' and the going gets easier. It is brushy but not horribly so and no ""stickerbushes"" or brambles on the slope. Once hitting the saddle at 4,200' take the ridge on the right staying on it until about 5,100' when you can approach the summit block from the SE. No troubles or exposure on this route. We were on top in 2 hrs 10 min and the downclimb was just under 1 hour (we had the benefit of glissades). Views into the seldom seen watershed for Seattle but also north to Baker and south to Rainier.

Arrived at the trailhead at about 7am and made it up to Flapjack Lakes before 10am, most time being spent in the steep trail to Flapjack Lakes. Trail in good shape, snow-free, just a few blowdowns near top. Last mile to lakes is rocky and steep! Lots of revegetation work in progress at the lakes so keep on the trails. Trail to Gladys Divide is signed and the trail begins in good shape. However, it quickly becomes covered in hard snow that looks like it will be in place for quite some time given the shady woods. Even with the snow, the route to Gladys Divide can be made by the determined hiker who simply follows topographic contours up. Just keep away from the streams and soft snowbridges and account for route-finding delays. The trail makes a few brief appearances but hikers will need to stay with the boottracks whenever possible and know where they are going. Great views of the Sawtooth Range open as one proceeds towards the divide. At the divide, one can look north to Mts. Skokomish and Henderson and beyond. Stupifying views. To the south, farther away, is Wonder Mt (another great, tough off-trail day hike). From the Divide there is an easy scramble up Mt. Gladys. I didn't take it because of time and snowfields on the Mt. I left the divide at noon and didn't get back to the lakes until 12:50pm because I lost the trail and scrambled thru brush. From the lakes I went down in about 2.5 hours with few stops, arriving at 3:20pm. A big dayhike, about 18 miles, and every inch worth it. After a trip like that I recommend going down to the Skokomish and soaking the legs for a bit. It leaves you ready to do it all again!

Road to maverick saddle is clear and in good shape. The trail upriver, however, is not. In spite of the Entiat Ranger's advice , the trail beyond the first bridge was about 60% snow covered with 1-3 feet of hard-pack. Minor deadfall present.Turned around after 4 miles, so its conceivable that snow coverage dissipated in the higher meadows, but can not verify.

This is my favorite Cougar Mtn. trail. Green lush forest with some big trees. Cool on this warm day. Trail was in good condition with some mud. We got our peek-a-boo view of Mt. Rainier, saw a Ground Hog, deer tracks, and shared our skin with mosquitoes at the top (1600 ft.) This was a nice after work escape to a quiet green world away from the city but close in. Only two other cars at the trailhead.

3.8 miles, 1200 ft. rise , trailhead is on hiway 900 about 3 miles south of I-90.

Went up 4th of July trail and out Icicle Ridge trail to Leavenworth trailhead. The brush in the avalanche chute has indeed been mostly burned out. Most of the forest areas were burned to top of ridge by last summer's fire, but mainly the lodgepole thickets were completely burned. Many of the larger trees were only scorched. Much of the forest areas on top of ridge east to the 1994 burn was also burned by the 2001 fire. 4th of July trail is mostly free of deadfall and also Icicle ridge trail until the serious downhill section. Patches of snow on ridgetop and in north facing areas but no problem to cross. From point where trail begins the serious downhill to almost the saddle above Leavenworth, there was a number of deadfalls over the trail. Last 2+ miles to bottom was open and good.

I wanted to scout out the snow and trail conditions on the North Fork Skykomish. The road (#63) is clear to the trailhead for West cady ridge and Quartz Creek. The 1 1/2 mile section up to N. Fork Sky has been cleared of brush and seems more driveable than last summer, but still requires at least slightly more ground clearance than the ordinary car. The road is blocked about 1/2 mile from the end by avalanche debris. When I turned the car around, one of my tires blew. I didn't want to test the midget spare on the rocky road late in the day, so I went back down the rough part and parked at the lower trailhead. I went a short way up both the Quartz Creek trail and the West Cady Ridge trail, and found them to be still mired in slushy snow and post-holing snow bridges. A couple of poles and some gaiters helped out. They are paving the road from Index, the way in is mostly done. The way out is mostly fresh oil which would be deadly for a motorcycle and cause much hair-pulling for someone with a new/nice car. Even 60 miles of highway driving didn't remove more than half of this mess from my tires. The opening of the high country to average hikers and backpackers is still depressingly far off, judging from the amount of snow at only 2500 ft on these trails.

The weather cleared at the perfect time for an evening trainer hike. Our little group gathered in the deserted parking lot at the trailhead (road in is a little rough in spots). We were soon heading up the direct route which, on the lower pitches, meant kicking a lot of steps in fast rotting snow cover. Reached the summit in two and a half hours, where the sunset was stunning and the breezes chilly. Departed the lookout around 9:30 PM, pluge stepping and glissading in the fading light.

Although we planned to follow the standard route on the way out we lost the trail and descended directly down the old ski hill. Donned headlamps for the final half mile. All in all, a perfect little outing.

While there is still a lot of snow, it is melting fast around rocks and over streams. Post holed up to waist numerous times.

Hiked from trailhead to Snowshoe Falls crossing early evening of 6/19/02. Note: I'm not a Northwesterner so this is might be an atypical report.

Patchy/moderate snow until Slippery Slab; all easy hardpack and no ice. OK/good for kids.

Above Slippery Slope, much less travelled. Substantial hardpack (5'-10') in forested areas remains, with a few areas of undercut snow bridges. Trail uniformly wet (slight running water) in open, avalanche-cleared areas. In those, nice wildflower display has begun; estimated peak in 2 weeks (??) Above Keekwulee Falls, in a couple of areas the side tributaries undercutting the snowpack may create risk of large undercut air pockets. It wasn't clear whether the trail on the snow (now) corresponds to where the trail on the ground will appear, after the snow melts. Turned around @Snowshoe (time).

Two other parties on route to Slippery Slope. Above that, nobody hiking after 5pm. Trail above Slippery not suggested for younger kids until snowbridge risk declines. Entire length is an easy walk in regular boots.

Drive up the Beckler River road to 6514, head up it to about 2500' where the road is blocked by a rock slide. We walked to road 6517 and crossed Eagle Creek. Then headed up an abandoned logging road to a saddle between Eagle Rock and Townsend massive. The road is badly overgrown, so we headed straight up the old clearcut. It is slightly brushy but in many places travel isn't too bad. From the saddle is at 4200'/ we moseyed left a little, and climbed steep snow and a gully to the snowfilled slopes near the summit. The rest of the way was straightforward. Views to Townsend, Baring, Gunn, and Merchant and many points further away. Also views of clearcuts on 3 sides of the mountain. Our descent was straight down to road 6517, where we ran into a little difficulty (this was an after work climb) but made it to the road slightly after dark. 3100' gain, 10 miles round trip, suggest leaving the car before 3:20pm!

Returned after last week's great trip, but brought randoneé skis and boots this time. There was a surprising amount of melt out since seven days ago; you can no longer ski all the way down to the bottom of the chairlift at Alpental and the big patches of snow at Summit West are now just dots. Didn't bother with the official Snow Lake Trail #1013 but instead went straight to the Source Lake trail/road (from the upper parking lot at Alpental - the backcountry ski/board exit). The mile and a half in to Source Lake is still entirely on snow, but melting out quickly. From Source Lake I again went straight up toward Chair Peak to the ridge at about 5300 ft. of elevation (the Snow Lake trail crosses lower down at about 4800 ft.) Skied down to about the 4350 ft. level (still a couple hundred feet above the lake) until my route dead-ended in cliffs. If you want to get to the lake, you should descend directly under the real trail route; it also looks like you can descend all the way from Chair Peak proper. Pretty much everything in the middle ends in cliffs. It looks like the route I took over the east ridge of Chair Peak will only be viable for a few more days - I had to jump a 3 ft. bergschrund dropping in to ski back to Source Lake and it's melting out fast. As usual, what looked rather sketchy going up in my AT boots was no big deal going down on skis. Be sure to bring good boots, hiking poles or ice axe, and map/compass as you will not be able to find the trail for a couple of weeks and will need to kickstep up the upper portion of this hike.

This is a cool short walk for a couple of reasons; a short, steep hike to ascend to Russell Ridge for awesome views, and it's a great place to get in position to watch wildlife from above and not disturb them. I saw a fawn pull the lay down and be still trick-he was about the size of dachsund with longer legs-when I came around a corner on the trail and surprised it and his mother. The last time I saw a fawn do that, the fawn lay down right in the middle of Hwy. 410 right about the Little Naches junction. He was in a bad spot, other than being in the middle of the road, but he was just on the other side of a small rise and an oncoming car would never see him and stop so I got out and picked him off the road after I put on a set of gloves and tried to scoop him up without getting too much smell on him. I walked him off the road and took him at to the bottom of the hill that his mother was on. Then after I drove out of sight, I snuck back to see if his mother had accepted him, which seemed like she had, though she was licking him furiously as the little guy made for some grub.

Anyway, back to today-I got up to around 6200 with no snow on the sides of the ridge that faced south and west but anything on the north and east sides has a lot of snow left. On the way back to the trailhead, I ran across the biggest black bear I had ever seen. He was moving across the hillside below me, but then changed directions and came up out a brushpile directly towards me about 40 yards away. I yelled at him, and waved my arms and stood up on his legs and looked at me, but he seemed in no way eager to move off-usually they run off in a big hurry. Eventually, after I fired a couple of shots into the air, he took off. Pretty exciting.

Mt. Dickerman is in fine spring shape. At 5:30 am there already was a car in the lot. No snow on the trail until just before crossing the 2 creeks. The second one below the waterfall still has a snow bridge, but it will be gone in just a few days I would guess. From there to the top is all snow. The winter route is still the best choice, and should be for a few more weeks. No bugs yet. Glisading down couldn't have been better. The other hiker was coming down before just as I started on the snow, and from his tracks, he must have only been on the summit for a minute. Why do people run on trails? Do you have to catch a bus? Stop and smell the evergreens, it's wonderful.

Good golly I've been getting out alot...

After four failed attempts to climb Dragontail Peak (two this year already), I was quite determined this time to give it a fight particularly because I had someone else with me.

Got up at about 3:30, picked up Eric and headed for Leavenworth under overcast drizzly skies soothed by the beats and melodies of old school Metallica and Pennywise. As predictably as can be, we hit the weather wall about five miles east of Stevens. From that point on, nothing but crystal blue skies, at least for awhile. The road to the trailhead is in great condition, if a little bit washboarded. The trail to the Colchuck Lake junction is also in great condition. From that point, the Colchuck Lake Trail alternates from fantastic shape to an annoying root and rock scramble. It is relatively short lived though, so it shouldn't be a problem for most hikers. Also it is snowfree to the lake (what a difference a month can make!). The trail around the lake had a few patches on it to begin with, but nothing too obnoxious.

Finally, the more continuous snow begins somewhere below the Colchuck Glacier moraine. On this cool morning, the snow was all frozen solid. Because we could see the snow up to Asgard (Ass-guard, he he...) was broken we could tell we would be putting crampons on and off continuously which turned out to be true and somewhat annoying, but not too terrible. The left side of the gully where the summer trail goes is mostly snowfree (ice axe required, crampons still recommended for a couple exposed traverses), but loose shifting talus and frozen scree didn't sound like a whole lot of fun, so we chose the nearly continuous snow slope on the right side of the gully. Someone had kicked steps up this slope the day before when the snow was soft which greatly aided our ascent with crampons. There is a point about two thirds up to the pass where this snowfield peters out right as the trail conveniently exits right and slaloms up the remainder of the way to the pass. From here, the upper Enchantment Lakes Basin is revealed. This area is still completely snowed over as was expected.

As we saw it was beginning to cloud up, we decided it would be to our advantage to move as fast as we safely could. I wasn't feeling that great for some reason so Eric lead the remaining portion of the climb up the Snow Creek ""Glacier."" Although I put the word glacier in quotes because this is commonly regarded as a permanent snow patch which climbers rarely rope up to cross, there were a large amount of depressions in the snow conspicuously filled with recent powder in a pattern verey remaniscent of crevasses. We were probably just imagining things but we still made a rising traverse ascent on the far right edge (probably the easiest way anyhow).

At the col, we stashed our packs and headed up the easy (class 2, snowfree) 250ft ascent to the summit. By this time a weak cloud deck had come in and the weather was only partly sunny (boohoo), but the top of Stuart was in clouds whereas it hadn't been a few hours before. So we decided it would be prudent to head down as quick as possible. The most amazing thing about the view from Dragontail is the straight shot down to Colchuck Lake 3400ft below. That is some amazing exposure.

We made our way safely down to Asgard where we ate our well deserved lunch and then we headed down to Colchuck Lake. One note of caution: on the lower part of Asgard on the right, snow-filled side, is a small but obvious active rockfall area below the Triple Couloirs route on Dragontail-we heard some activity down there, be careful. The snow on our descent was predictably softer than on the ascent and was reasonably comfortable to plunge-step down, though crampons made it more comfortable, as long as they didn't ball up.

Finally we reached the lake. By this time (mid-afternoon), there was a considerable mosquito population at the lake and on the trail below. By the time we reached the trailhead, it was about 6:30, us having started at 6:00AM. We probably went a little slower than a very fit and focused party could go, but not much-we were pretty fit and pretty focused. This is just a long, demanding day. The Enchantment Lakes aren't really open to hikers yet.

Wow. Lots of trees down. The trail was being worked on while we were there but they had a lot of work ahead. The last 1/4 mile was virtually un passable without great effort.

Trail is clear to rise past Strawberry Lake, after which point the incidence of blow-downs increases. None of these blow-downs required we take off our packs, and only one required crawling. Some water on the trail, though it had not turned to mud in the wettest spots despite what appears to be relatively steady springtime use. The short Little Strawberry Lake trail has snow on it for much of its length. We found the snow relatively easy to navigate. Campsites at the lake were clear of snow and dry. Overnight the temperature fell below freezing (another indoor snowstorm when we shook the frozen condensation off of the rain fly), so bring warm bags & clothes. Firewood in abundance. Bugs not a problem. Water plentiful and clean.

This is a little used ""forest"" trail with only very small windows out to the skyline. Road 74 to Martin Gap was not quite opened. I parked my Tercel about a mile from the trailhead, 1/4 mile up the road a couple had parked their Outback; snow drifts still blocked the road. On the trail there are some blowdown obsticles in the first 3/4 mile, but then comes the crossing of the first small valley. Here there is enourmous damage of at least two trees greater than three feet diameter falling on the trail and another one that up-rooted and took 10' of trail with it. I would recommend a work crew of about 10-15 people with at least two 6'-10' saws and two smaller saws. As a hiker I scrambled pased this obsticle in about 5-10 minutes but for horse people it would be impossible. Other blow-downs to the first switchback can be easily stepped over. I saw a few trilium; vanilla leaf and trillium still sprouting. I will definately go back and hike this one all the way to hurricane gap. On this day though I had come for sunset pictures of Rainer. So I turned back and reclimbed Frog Mountain for the second time that day.

Note to photographers: The alpenglow was strongest not just after sunset but about 10 minutes before.

There were five other cars in the parking area at the Ingalls Creek trailhead when we arrived mid-afternoon on Monday 6/17. We began hiking at 4 pm. The Ingalls Creek Trail starts at an elevation of 1950' and climbs a fairly steady 300' per mile. The main events this time of year are the wildflowers, the snow melt roaring down the creek bed, and the snowless trail. The first two or three miles are eastside in nature-- pine trees, sparse underbrush, and rock. At around 3000' the pines give way to firs and avalanche brush. No need to hike further than you care to-- camps abound all along the way. We stopped at Falls Creek (3420') and set up camp after five and a half miles of fairly leisurely strolling in about three hours time. No rattlesnakes or snow to this point. From Falls Creek there are several side trips available by continuing up the drainage and crossing the creek onto trails headed upslope to the south. Don't try a ford this time of year though. You'll be better off following the stream until you find a log to cross, then bushwhacking your way back to the trail on the opposite side. For those interested in continuing Ingalls Creek Trail west, blow-downs increase from Falls Creek and we were told snow becomes heavy at around 4500'. This is a worthwhile hike while waiting for the snow to melt in the high country, but don't expect solitude. Both persisitant mice and hikers are plentiful.

The trail is in excellent condition, and cleared of blowdown all the way to the south fork camp/trail cutoff at 7.2 miles. There are some large blowdowns once you hit the old burn and up into the meadows, but none are exceedingly hard to climb over or walk around. The flowers are out in abundance, and we encountered almost no bugs! There are a few snowbanks left in the meadows, but they are mostly snow-free, and there are excellent establsihed campsites, some with fire rings. Snow cover starts around 7000 feet, and the waterfalls are running high! 6/17-18/2002, Matt.

Good Times!!

We camped at Buck Creek. Took this trail up to the 5,040ft level. We tried to get to the shelter but ran into a downed tree. The down tree was right at a switchback and blocked a big protion of the trail. Hikers and bikes could pass but not horses. After fighting the horses to get them turned around, we headed back to the lookout at 4,000ft.

All and all the trail is in good shape. I could see that a work party came through and cut downed trees along the way.

From Buck Creek up to 4,400ft the trail is in great shape for horses and hikers. no snow!

Good times

Mountain. What a concept to hike in the mountains! After eight straight months of hiking in the high desert lands of Washington, I've called it a break for the summer heat and it felt great to be back in the mountains! For my first return to hiking in the green-overdose of trees I headed up the Cle Elum valley to hike up the little used Howson Creek Trail with Michael Fagin and his friend Dennis. Starting at 2300' the first mile passed through refreshing forest and was easy to move along with only a few hundred feet elevation gain to the crossing of Howson Creek. Here a great log crosses the creek, which is pretty full of water still. Being a bit unsteady of a hiker with a larger pack on the back and a heavy chest harness on my frontside for my camera gear, I tend to try avoiding these types of crossing under the circumstances. I did find a place to make a long-legged stretch jump from 6"" of water into 6"" of water and make it across the rushing 3' of waters in the middle while keeping my feet dry--the blessings of having long legs! The other two guys couldn't believe my feet were still dry. Suddenly the trail gets into thigh-burning serious business to make it up to 5100' in the next two miles. There is an old clear-cut for 1/3 mile after crossing the creek that is beautiful to hike through even while the trail is steep. Views were abundant westward toward Thorp Mountain and others, and the wildflowers of lupines, paintbrush, and penstomens were grand! We continued on between small rainshowers (never enough to get us wet) and managed to work our way through a couple of areas where the trail gets pretty faint. It always shows up strong enough within 100' or so that continuing on was never a problem. Some areas the trail is very excellent grade, others it is very uneven and shows hardly any traffic. Game trails abound, but never really confusing to me anyhow (they could to some novice hikers however, so you need to always look if the ""straight"" trail is really the trail or of that turn-back is really the official trail and switchback to hike up!). We passed along the huge boulder field and the elevation gain from 4200'-4900' was intense. This was the hardest part of the hike and also easier to get off trail a tiny bit under the thick trees--just head uphill if in doubt and you'll hit the trail again. When we got to the boulder field at 5100' the trail passes over it very nicely and views were grand toward Lemah Mountain, Mount Daniels, and all of the Kachess Ridge chain of peaks. We headed up the boulder field here to a prominent area and enjoyed a cool lunch in the sky watching the rainshadow do it's work: dark clouds west of Easton just always hung on there and never took stronghold over our location! We packed up once some more sprinkles headed in, and pounded on down the almost 3000' elevation to the trailhead. The carpets of vanilla-leaf were particularly photographic on this terrific day! Re-crossing Howson Creek again was a success for all of us--those log crossers, and myself, the galloping creek-leapin' fool! Onward into a great summer of mountain hiking!

This one starts at the Barclay Lake trailhead at the end of FS 6024, elevation ~2200 ft.

Two other parties supposedly out for the same summit left the trailhead at the same time, but we saw very little of them this day. The way starts along an abandoned road to the right of the Barclay Lake trail. About 200 yards down the road find a cairn and a small stream coming down the hillside, this is the start of the unofficial trail that leads one most of the way to the summit. When in doubt stay right along the stream, don't head off into the dense second growth to the left as we did. There is a short stretch where it is necessary to walk in the creek and where some people make the mistake of heading for the trees. There is a faint route in the trees, but it is much worse than the more popular creek route.

The trail shoots more or less straight up the north side of the ridge. The way grows faint in places but trending straight up will put you in the right place - at the top of the ridge at 4000 ft where a lone, orange flag marks the trail for the return trip. Here the path meanders along the ridge crest for about a mile and then heads straight up hill (currently in snow) where the first good views of Baring since the parking lot can be had. We ascended the prominent gully to the right of the summit to 5550 ft (basically until you can't go any further). At this notch, to the north, is a steep section (~75 ft) of snow that is really the only crux in reaching the summit right now. We had good snow conditions throughout the day and had little trouble getting up and down this section. We used ice axes and crampons, an ice ax was required. The rest of the way to the summit was straight forward along snow and rock. Excellent views from the summit (6125 ft) with clear skies above a thick marine layer blanketing the lower elevations. The other two parties we saw at the trailhead never made the summit of Baring. In fact, it didn’t appear that they even made the top of the ridge at 4000 ft, very curious. Approximately 6 miles walked and 4200 ft gained for the day.

This trail was an accidental discovery when we wandered into the Marblemount Ranger station and asked for a day hike. While steep, this was a beautifully maintained trail with wild flowers and waterfalls galore. Bugs were not a problem and we saw only one other set of hikers the whole day long. While sweeping views were not a part of our day, the trail itself provided numerous photo ops. Give this 'huffer' a try!

We were going on a hike to Barclay Lake for father's day and decided to take on the challenge of hiking to Eagle Lake from Barclay. The trail to Barclay Lake is well-maintained and easy--a good hike for kids. Once you pass Barclay Lake and start looking for a trail to Eagle Lake it gets harder. It took us a while to acutally find the trail (just past the toilets on the west end of the lake), and once we found the trail, it was sometimes difficult to find the flags and rock cairns marking the trail. The trail literally heads straight up, with very few switchbacks and a lot of scrambling over rocks and through brush. It is definitely a strenuous climb! Snow was encountered at Stone Lake and the trail was more difficult to find. We took it slowly, because we were worried about falling through the snow, not having brought the proper equipment. When we finally got up to the meadows near Eagle Lake, we decided to turn around, as the snow was still at least 4 feet thick and we were not prepared. If it hadn't been cloudy, the view would have been magnificient!

Point of the Arches was one of the most scenic spots I've ever seen. There are rock stacks, tall cliffs, sandy beaches, caves, and tide pools everywhere. Our route did not go through Cape Alva. We took the Makah entrance to Point of the Arches. This is the easiest way to get to Point of the Arches. To get there go to West end of Neah Bay(town), (make sure you get a Makah permit upon entrance to reservation, can buy at most stores etc) and take a left. Its the Western most road in this tiny town so you can't miss it. Continue straight, following ""Fish Hatchery"" signs until you come to a bridge on your left. The roads from Neah Bay are rocky, sandy, and partially paved. Cross the bridge and continue to follow the ""Fish Hatchery"" signs (If you continue straight there is a short trail 1 1/4 mi leading you to the end of Cape Flattery. There are spectacular views of the cliffs and Tatooish Island. I highly recommend this detour). Several miles down you will approach a blue steel bar/barracade blocking travel for cars off to the right hand side of the road. The big blue steel bar has ""No Parking"" etc. clearly spray painted on it in white paint. It is best to unpack here and get your gear together. Then have someone drive back to the first house to park. I thought this was weird but remember, you are on the Reservation. Drive up the driveway and look for a sign and a box to put in your $5 for parking. Other cars will be parked there on a nice day. The trail is about 2mi down to Shi-Shi beach. It is full of mud holes which can easily be avoided by hiking on the slightly higher trails up around the sides of the main trail. All the mudholes were annoying at first but it was well worth the trip. Just before the ascent down to the beach will be a National Park drop box for day hikers and backpackers. Proceed down the steep windy trail to the beach 1/4mi. At the bottom to your right is a huge stack which you can climb around at low tide. On the sea-facing side of this stack are some interesting caves and views of a huge arch slightly North West. To your left is Point of the Arches, about 2mi down the nice sandy beach. Camping spots are marked along the way and slightly in the woods off the beach. We camped on the beach and nobody gave us a hard time. Point of the Arches is just chock-full of arches and caves. Some near the end of the point are difficult to reach even at low tide, but there are plenty to explore closer to the beach. We saw a bald eagle up in one of the dead trees proudly scanning the beach, it was awesome. The views and scenery are amazing, great place for couples to spend the night backpacking far away from civilization without a strenuous hike. Dogs were not allowed here although we brought ours (and got a quick lecture from a passing Ranger as well as a granola crunching dude who thought he was performing his civic duties). I think the rule is stupid, especially on the beach but pretending to be ignorant and apologetic will get you by. Overall: Awesome hike/overnighter but long drive from Seattle....

After a long and miserable, yet character building experience of portaging kayaks from Hozomeen to the nearest available put-in (low water conditions) we made our way to our camp at Cat Island. Started the hike from the Ross Lake Spur which shaved off a couple of miles from starting the trail at Lightning Creek. If you follow the Desolation trail straight down to the water on the map, there is a small sign and a very small landing to get up to it.

From there the sign said 4.7 miles. The trail was snowfree for the most part, until you hit the meadows around 3 miles or so. Tons of flowers in bloom under the snowline. Bugs were very sparse. The weather cooperated with us and we had incredible views most of the hike up. We ran into quickly melting snow towards the top of the hike in probably 5-6 big patches. An ice-ax would've been worth gold up there. The last quarter to half mile was mostly snow, but the terrain made it much easier than the other patches of snow.

The 360 views from the lookout were well worth the hike up. We sat on the sun flooded peak for an hour or so and ate lunch before heading back.

Just a note to say that the official Forest Service reports as of Sunday 6/16 are a little misleading. The trail was easy to follow past patches of snow to 5000', not 4200'. From there, one should have an ice axe. I did not and turned back at about 5200'. One nasty block from a blow-down was encountered. Great wildflower viewing in the meadows. Saw a bear on the road about a mile from the trailhead.

though overcast in the morning, it turned out to be a beautiful day for a hike. there was a little snow over the road after descending barlow pass (and a stuck suburban with florida plates, felt sorry but had to laugh at that one!) the trail along elliot creek was in great condition, no water on the trail and close enough to touch the raging water in some places. fortunately we arrived early saturday morning and claimed a secluded campsite before the weekend onslaught of campers arrived. we passed no one on the way in, but almost needed passing lanes on the way out sunday morning. the lake itself is beautiful and the logjam at the edge provided some entertaining moments as a couple members of the group took a few accidental baths in the lake, good thing it was warm! foggy peak is an impressive sight on the far side of the lake. one complaint though, disregard to the no campfire posting, we saw more than a few campfires at night.

Amy and I hiked this trail on Sunday. The trail was in excellent condition. Very few horses or hikers have been out yet this year.

If you have the book ""101 hikes in Wa"", the directions are not correct to get to the trailhead. The signage is also poor. After passing 29 pines camp, go straight for the 2.5 miles in the book, but at 2.5 miles turn right on the road at the fork. I think this road is 9708. Follow this road for about 1.5 miles. You will cross over a trailhead at Stand-up creek. Keep going a few hundred yards to a parking lot on the right at Stuart Creek. (Take a map, its easy to find)

The creek rushes along the trail for the entire 5 mile stretch to the pass, giving ample cooling-off opportunity and a very nice sound track for the hike. As the trail approaches the pass there was a late season avalanche that nocked over some trees and left some snow on the trail. We were unable to follow the trail beyond that point, so we scrambled up the knoll along the waterfalls and headwaters of the creek and soaked in the fabulous views and warm sun rays. Later Sammy the dog and I scramled up a ridge to catch a peak of Rainier and an incredible landscape that stretch for miles over the Alpine Lakes. This trail is under-rated in our opinion.

Lingering snow called for a change of venue for the planned Mountaineer hike scheduled this weekend. Karen Sykes suggested Easton Ridge for an early-season hike in the PI a couple of weeks ago, so we thought we'd give it a try. The trail is not on the Green Trails map, though part of the route up is shown on the 7.5-minute maps.

The trail gets to business right away after crossing a boisterous Silver Creek on a nice bridge. It switchbacks up the ridge, sometimes in trees, sometimes in clearcuts with increasing views of Lakes Kachess and Easton, and the surrounding valley. After gaining 1,200’ in about a mile and a half, we reached a signed junction with the Domerie Divide Trail. We took a break from the climb and went north for a quarter mile to a viewpoint of a nice cascading falls of Silver Creek, and views of the valley below.

We returned back to the junction, which contained the last trail sign we would see. The trail is confusing in places from here on, but when in doubt, go up. Just a few feet past the junction sign is an unsigned split in the trail, where you need to go up. We headed nearly straight up the next half-mile until we came out on the ridge crest and the trail levels off. We followed the ridge with some ups and downs for another two miles and stopped for lunch on a rocky high point of 4,500’ that is on the east side of the ridge. There were still some large snow patches lingering in the trees on the ridge near our lunch stop. We had nice views of the Stuart Range, Wenatchee Mountains, Lake Cle Elum, and the nearby villages of Ronald, Roslyn and Cle Elum. There were also views of the checkerboard area south of I-90, including South Cle Elum Ridge, Manastash Ridge and Goat Peak. Views of Rainier and some of the central Cascade peaks were blocked by clouds. For awhile we could still see Fifes Ridge, which is located near Chinook Pass. A front was blowing in with a strong wind and soon our limited views to the southwest began to diminish as clouds began to pile over the crest. With the wind, there was no problem with bugs.

Now for the flower report: All kinds of berries are in bloom, including thimbleberry, huckleberry, red-flowering currant and sticky currant, as well as roses and Ceonothus velutinus. The forest floor, where undisturbed, was thick with vanilla leaf, Solomon's seal, luina, Oregon grape and starflower. Higher on the ridge there were trilliums, Spring beauty, bracted lousewort, glacier lilies and yellow violets in bloom, witness to recent snowmelt. The ridge had a rich selection of sun-lovers in the rocky exposed bits, including several varieties of lupine, arnica, harsh paintbrush , penstemon, lomatium, rockcress, a patch of arrowleaf balsam and the rare Checkered lily. Our lunch spot was sprinkled with hardy alpines, including smooth douglasia, stonecrop, Lewisia columbiana, pussytoes and white daisies. I counted over 45 different varieties of plants, most in bloom, some very rare.

Although the trail starts out as a multiple use, when it hits the ridge and splits, horses and motorcycles are left behind. There were several blowdowns along the trail and as Mr. T stated, the trail was very vague in spots. Following the faded signs for the Town of Roslyn Watershed will keep you on target.

This trail makes a good early season hike, since the ridge melts out earlier than the nearby Teanaway Country. The trail is tough in spots, definitely not designed for leisurely hiking, but worth the effort as a conditioner and to enjoy the high rocky gardens and views. Our group felt that we all had a good workout and enjoyable day.

Here's a trail that's not very well-known, overlooked by guidebooks, open to motorcycles, the site of a proposed ski area – but from the summit of Stormy Mountain it's a spectacular view to the Chiwaukum and Dakobed Ranges, Mounts Stuart, Rainier, Adams and Glacier Peak, the Enchantments, snowy peaks of the North Cascades, Lake Chelan, the Columbia Plateau and thousands of acres burned in the 1994 Tyee Fire. Stormy's a prominent peak west of Chelan, an impressive eastern outpost of the Cascades. It stands at the head of the Twentyfive Mile Creek Valley, a pine forest ringed by a horseshoe of high ridges, draining into Lake Chelan. The section I hiked June 16 is the 1.5 miles from the Slide Ridge Road to the summit of Stormy. The trail is a nice hike through lodgepole pine, a 1994 fire line and subalpine meadows. Remarkable variety for the length. Biting black flies were an annoyance. A certain irony greets the hiker attempting to access the trailhead for the hike to the summit of 7,198-foot Stormy: the Slide Ridge Road from Twentyfive Mile Crek is an atrociously long and agonizing drive, while the trail itself is a smoothly-graded motorcycle driveway. I made it to within 2 miles of the trailhead, parked, and walked to the trail. You can also hike over 15 miles to the top from the valley below via the Pot Peak trail. This time year, snowpatches are still here and there – combined with blowdown, they keep the trail motor-free for now. A truly incredible view greets hikers at the summit, which is flat enough that one could hold a 16-team ankle-turning volleyball tournament. Windy Camp, just off the Slide Ridge Road near the trailhead, is a nice side trip, especially for the gushing Windy Camp Spring. A handful of developers want to build a ski area on Stormy – though their ideas range from a low-key, two-lift operation to North America's Kiztbuehl, there's one thing they can agree on – putting ski lifts on the mountain. It would be incredible skiing, to be sure – but it is now, to anyone willing to hoof it the 20-odd miles to the top in the winter – and no one has to pay $50 a day to access the mountain now. The Devils Backbone Trail continues along a ridge that divides the Lake Chelan an Entiat Valleys. There are miles of motorcycle trails, which would also be spectacular if accessed via people-powered wheels (mountain bikes). I highly recommend this trail; even when motors are allowed it's worth the short walk to the summit. Hike it and see; don't let this special area fall into the wrong hands.

Winter unleashed its fury in the Perry Creek basin. There are several large avalanche swaths that destroyed many trees on both sides of the valley. The waterfalls are flowing spectacularly on both sides. On the trail, slide alder/maple or whatever has grown down to be a minor annoyance but surely will be cut out soon. More worthy to mention is the avalache debris. There are bazillions of tree branches across the trail in a few places, along with lingering snow. But nothing is too difficult to cross. There is one creek crossing that may get your feet wet.

Past Perry Creek Falls, you can cross the creek on snow or get wet and take the normal log route. After that the trail is difficult to follow. We managed to find it after considerable wandering, but decided to give up at 4000' and headed up towards Stillaguamish Mt. That route goes ok to the summit (some scrambling required). No views in the dense fog.

Bugs are starting to appear, but not pesky yet.

My group of 4 set out to climb Hurricane Peak. 3.6 miles off the Suiattle River Road, on FS 2660 (Tenas Creek road), we encountered a tree across the road.

This tree is about 15"" in diameter, but if cut at the 12"" diameter area, a car could get around it.

Alas, I had no saw.

Rather than hike the additional 3.5 miles to the Boulder Lake trail, we went elsewhere.

Encountered several blow-downs on the trail. Snow becomes solid at about 5500 feet and makes the trail hard to follow. I turned around at that elevation for that reason and also because the footing was a bit slippery. Crampons would have been nice. However, it was still a worthwhile hike as several good views of Lake Wenatchee and the surrounding mountains were available on the way up.

Turned away from our initial destination, we decided to hike up Huckleberry. Trail has recently been maintained by the Forest Service for the first 4 miles. Snow encountered at 4.5 miles, 4600'. Solid snow from that point on. We continued to the ridge then followed the ridge to a high point at 5340', inside the clouds.

We navigated back to the snow-free trail, losing our approach footsteps on the hard snow in the trees, and only sligtly overshooting the point where we left the trail.

11 miles round trip, 4700' total elevation gain. Cold on top, and quite warm at the bottom.

Traveled to the top of Mount Zion for Father's day with Grampa and the boys, eight and nine. This trail is very well-maintained from start to finish. There were many different types of flora out, including trillium, vanilla leaf, false Solomon's Seal, and phlox and wild straw- berries at the top. The tread is very comfortable, with pine needles padding the path nearly all the way to the top. But the most impressive sight on this foggy day was the presence of so many rhodies. They were just budding out from start to finish along the trail. Another couple of weeks and this hike will be in full color. There were many folks out on the trail, mostly families. We counted maybe 25 people still heading up as we were heading down, and we got a late start (11:30)! The views were non- existant, but it was a fun workout for the boys, especially wandering around on the top ridge as it went up and down. It was only a 30 minute drive from Quilcene to the trailhead, 1 hour 15 minutes to the top, and about 40 minutes down.

Incredible difference that a week can make-the past week of high temps really lowered the snow levels-as much as 2-3 feet in some places-the trail to the Spiral Butte, about 4.3 miles-around 4800 in elevation is mostly clear-beyond that is almost all snow-some still very deep. Shellrock is open, I didn't catch any fish, but saw a huge otter. Otter Lake still had ice on it-while fishing, a large bull elk prowled the shore grazing on grass on the open area above the lake. A few mosquitoes-as the snow melts they'll be out in hordes soon.

Treated myself to a Father's day hike along the Clear Fork of the Cowlitz river on trail #61. The drive to the trailhead was uneventful (although the heavy spring runoff has made it pretty rough in spots) and no other vehicles but mine:) The trail was dry the first half-mile with a blow-down or two. The next mile and half was mostly mud and standing water from the snowmelt. My intention was to quickly cover the first 2.3 miles to Skeeter shelter and pickup the #76 trail (to Lost lake)to see how much snow remained. To my surprise, the snow fields at the shelter were pretty deep (1-3 feet) and still covered 90% of the forest floor. I wandered the vicinity looking for signs of the trail but eventually lost it after the first two hundred yards or so. Since I had gotten a late start, I decided to head back taking my time and stopping to take pictures of the spring flowers just now emerging. I ended the day with a magnificent view of Mt Rainier peeking out from amoungst the clouds.

Easton Ridge: Headed east of Snoqualmie Summit to catch some sun and warmth. Eager to try something new. Followed Perry's excellent driving instructs from his 6/2 posting. Road is in very good condition until the ridge top. Stay to left. Do not descend into the valley to the right. However, at that point the road becomes progressively more impassable for most passenger vehicles. Alas, my poor Honda could go no further without risking serious damage.

Gold Creek: Trail in good condition. Steady snow at Wilderness boundary. Postholing opportunities even for the cautious. No bugs (yet).

There was a nice article in the paper about this trail, but it's WAY more confusing to stay on the right trail than the article suggests. Once the trail hits the road on your way up, you should be on the road only about 50 feet or so (around a bend) before you hit the continuation of the trail leaving the road from the same side. The trail will come to another intersection as you near the ridge. You will see a sign here indicating both trails. Hang a right, then keep your eyes down on the trail until you come to an almost imperceptible fork about 50 feet from the intersection. Take the very faint trail that goes up the ridge at an unpleasant climb. If you are skipping along an easy, relatively flat trail, you missed it.

It is a good workout, and you'll have plenty of solitude. There is a reason that you will see very few people on this trail: no great payoff in terms of views. It just kinda goes and goes along a wooded ridge. I was going to camp, but just couldn't get inspired, and the bugs were making a main course out of me.

The trail begins as road 1590, about 1.5 miles beyond Mineral Ck. Campground off the Cascade River Road (the road 1590 is at the big switchback, approx. 16.5 miles from the Bridge at Marblemount).

Pincer Creek as well as smaller creeks have washed out the old road, which is slated for abandonment. No big deal, just walk to the trail, about 1.5 miles. You have to ford Pincer Ck. Currently there is a live vine maple downed 100 feet or so above the roadbed. It’s mostly submerged, but includes nice sturdy handholds. Your boots will get wet, but not too badly (no advice for later, once the vine maple is gone).

The road ends at an old homestead site. An old mining road turns uphill, the trail is to the right, easy to find.

The trail delves deep into old growth forest and alongside the beautiful S. Fork Cascade River. Big mossy, soft lumps cover the forest floor – they’re either stumps or boulders; you’d have to peel ‘em to determine which (but don’t do that!)

At about 2ish miles from where the road turns into trail, the trail forks. The S Fork continues along the S Fork Cascade River, and is maintained for only about 3 miles. The M Fork trail goes up. Though switchbacked, its very steep, for about a mile or so. The trees get bigger, and soon you are alongside the Mid Fork Cascade River. Here the River runs at such a steep grade it is almost a waterfall. The trail crosses a pretty moss-covered boulder field and enters deep forest again. Now you’re waaay above the River, and the trail narrows in places and hugs the steep mountain. Don’t slip on the inches-thick carpet of fir needles and hemlock cones. You slip, you trip, and take a dip.

After about a mile, the trail flattens awiile and you’re alongside the River once again. Check out the size of the logs in that logjam! At about 4.5 miles is another ford, much easier, then another; this one scary; a long log about 15 feet above the creek which runs underneath it. The showboats took this high walker, while the remaining others took the other much safer log to the right (but this one is likely temporary for this year only).

Beyond this the trail almost gets lost for awhile in the deep carpet of years upon years of tree needles.

We turned around at about the 5 mile point, as we had logged out over 25 old growth trees from across 3 miles of this trail and were just a little bit tired. 25 down, 25 more to go, plus those 25 that are probably falling as I write this.

Exploring this gorgeous trail is highly recommended.

Headed east on Friday with my dad (father's day) in search of higher snow levels and surefire good weather. We got both, pretty much.

First order of business was to drive up Cascade River Road to retrieve my car which we stashed for a couple days at the Chevron in Marblemount. Next was the continuation of the LONG drive (~6 hours) to Omak, where we spent the night in a motel (hey I wasn't complaining because I didn't pay for it). We headed up to Iron Gate Trailhead early Saturday morning. Toats Coulee Road is paved and in great shape. It is of course the six mile Iron Gate Road itself that is infamous for being rough. I was able to drive it in my pathetic 1995 Pontiac Grand Am (yeah it's white too :( so I guess that says it can't be in too terrible shape. It was at the very limit of what my car could handle though (at 8mph).

The lady at the Tonasket Ranger Station that I talked to on the phone a few days before the trip was a freakin moron (beyond Iron Gate Road, she had absolutely no idea what I was talking about and whether or not there was snow there, which is odd considering Horseshoe Basin is probably the most popular hiking destination in the Tonasket Ranger District) so we really didn't have much idea what we were getting into. The first 2.5 miles or so were completely easy and snowfree (3 minor blowdown). From there on were intermittant snow patches. Neither travel nor routefinding were overly difficult. Soon enough, we entered the treeline basin approaching Sunny Pass where the occasional patches continued to the pass where we camped because views are really as good here as anywhere. All the snow in the area is very thin and melting fast. It will probably be almost completely gone within a week.

Horseshoe Basin is open for hiking!!

After getting the tent set up and my dad in it for a much wanted nap, I set off to do some ""hardcore wandering."" This activity cannot be done in most areas and consists mainly of hiking cross country as quickly as possible and bagging as many peaks or other destinations as possible in the least amount of time. First I headed off directly towards Horseshoe Peak which loomed 800 gradual feet above camp. This was quickly attained, so I descended to the trail heading towards Horseshoe Pass. This section of trail still has some sortof significant snow on it (boo hoo). Once at Horseshoe Pass, I headed directly up Arnold Peak which had the greatest elevation gain (about 1000 feet) but was completely gradual meadows and tundra. Fun fun. From Arnold, I headed down to the treeless gap between it and Armstrong and then ascended Armstrong and hiked to Canada (woo hoo...). I then descended the same way I came up and made my way back to the snowy trail taking me back to camp. This all took about four hours. Fantastic weather, truly a mountain amusement park.

The night was good (and warm!) and we woke up to filtered sunshine changing quickly to high clouds possibly foreshadowing a negative change in the weather, so we packed up and headed out. Fantastic trip! Very few bugs, little elevation gain, managable snow, good conditions, awesome!

Today I was able to go on a scramble I have long wanted to do. Goat Island Mountain is up the White River entrance to Mount Rainier National Park. It is located just north of Summerland with eye popping views of Rainier. I have hiked for about 20 years now and I had never even been to Summerland. The trailhead is at about 3800' and the summit is at 7288'. This trip was a Mountaineer scramble with a party limit of 8. In many ways it was nicer than a party of 12. It was led by Jay and Lindy Bruce. I always seem to have a great time on their trips. In an unusual occurrence, we met at 8:00 am at the trailhead and everyone was on time. There was a little patchy snow near the start but not much. Very quickly we intersected the Wonderland Trail. It is very easily graded for the 3+ miles that we followed it. After a short distance we were on snow. It was on and off at first then more solid snow. With the wide trail and existing footprints it is very easy to follow.

At about 3 miles we left the forest and the trail was snow free. This was near the Frying Pan Creek crossing at 5200'. Once across the creek we were back on snow again. We were concerned about recrossing the creek farther up but the brush along the right side of the creek convinced us that crossing was better than beating brush. As it turned out recrossing was no problem. Once on the left side the going on snow was no problem. Where the Wonderland Trail would switchback up to Summerland, we angled right and headed out onto the snow covered moraine. The creek was mostly buried but occasionally in the open. Snow bridges are still solid enough to easily cross the creek. This will change quickly with more snow melt. From the lower moraine views opened up to Rainier, Little Tahoma, and behind us Tamanos Mountain. So far the day had been mostly sunny providing great views all around. After crossing the creek the way began to ascend more steeply. There were foot prints all this way and in fact all the way to the summit. We were early in the season but definitely not the first to summit. Part way up the first snow section we moved onto a dirt rib and stopped for some food and water. The views across to Summerland and Panhandle Gap only became better.

After the break I took over the lead and continued a rising traverse to the right, aiming for the lower ridge of Goat Island Mountain. The snow conditions were excellent. I could easily kick steps and they held firm. I couldn't help stopping several times to turn around and take more pictures. This is one beautiful place on a sunny day in late Spring. Once on the ridge top, at 6400', we regrouped. From here it is only another 900' to the summit. The ridge top was snowy on the side we came up and largely bare on the other. We had a mix of snow and bare ridge all the way up. After a moderately steep section the ridge begins to level off. The first false summit, only 70' lower than the real one, was soon in view. From the top of this one the real summit came into view. At about this time the weather conditions really began to decline. Clouds seemed to be coming over all the ridges around us. When we first reached the ridge the summit of Rainier, Little Tahoma, and Steamboat Prow were all crystal clear. We even saw two rope teams near Camp Sherman. By the first false summit all of them were obscured or well on their way. We followed the leftward turning ridge on towards the real summit. There was only one spot where we traversed on steep snow and it was not too bad. I seemed to have a little more energy than usual and sprinted ahead to the summit. The summit is very broad. We could have put 80 people on top. By now our sunny day was over and it was time to bundle up and have some lunch. The summit views were fairly obscured but it wasn't so bad as we could see nearly everything when we first reached the ridge. We spent about 30 minutes on top.

The way down was lot's of fun. After moving around to the false summit it was nearly all down hill. The descent down to where we first reached the ridge went fast. From here we stayed higher than our ascent and moved across to straight above where we first began the rising ascent. Now it was nearly straight down to meet our trail. On steep snow this can only mean one thing: Glissade!! On went the waterproof pants and out came the ice axe. From near the ridge top to the end of the steep section was 375' of sliding fun. It was one of the better glissades I have done this year. The rest of the descent went smoothly. The sun didn't come back out but the clouds did lighten for awhile. Back down in the basin it was much warmer also. We were back at the cars a little after 4:00. Just another 8 hours day in the mountains. It turned out to be a great trip. Good snow conditions, good views, and a great group. Totals for the day were 12 miles and about 3600' gained. I will definitely go back to Goat Island Mountain in the future. Photos should be up in a day or two at http://www.kuresman.com. Look under ""Trips-2002"".

The newly rebuilt hiker's trail (Lower Elliott) is in great shape. Particularly impressive is Elliott Creek, which is close to washing out the trail near the trail- head -- the volume of water is amazing -- though the trail is still dry at this point.

There's no snow on the trail to the lake, though there are a few patches on the north side of the lake, about half way to the end of the lake. There was more snow (even as low as 1700') along the road to Barlow Pass than along most of the trail.

There were a few bugs, not bad. Alex (9) and friend Kevin had a great time. Trail is well graded, and a vast improvement over the ""trail"" that follows the old road. Younger Ethan (5) stayed in good spirits, but was carried for significant stretches in the interest of time. The high water levels in some the creeks crossings the trail were challenging for the kids -- great fun!

Started off from FR #81 heading east towards MT. ST Helens. Trail still covered with snow up to the knees in patches. Hikeable but keep a close eye on the trail. Looks like a few others have hiked this trail so you can follow the foot prints to keep the trail. Hopefully in about three weeks it will be free of snow.

We hoped to go to Deer Lake or Bear Lake but there was so much snow on the trail we camped at Dorothy Lake. We found 2 snow-free campsites at mid-lake. However, snow melted quickly from Satruday to Sunday and shoud be gone soon. Some mosquitos in the evening and am. We passed about 40-50 people on the trail in 2 days (5 other backpackers).

My partner, Joe Kania and I, had other objectives this weekend, but after Plan A fell apart, we headed up to Copper Lake. The trail is not in great shape, but there's not much blowdown on trail until past Trout Lake. Do be careful with kids and dogs when crossing the Foss River within a mile of the trailhead.

After that, the trail steepens considerably, and there is a lot of blowdown and water on the trail. Switchbacking up the hill, there are great views of the Copper River outfall, which is wide, loud, and spectacular right now. At about 3600', the trail turns to snow. There is a rather nasty snow bridge crossing at that point. It will be obvious that it's necessary to drop below the trail a bit to make this crossing safely, and you'll want sturdy boots and an ice axe to do so. It's a little exposed. Not too long after that, there's a creek ford that will fill your boots with water, and the large 2-log bridge has lost its handrail. It's no problem though, as the bridge is pretty wide. Be aware that the snow is melting rapidly and the stairs that we chopped in to access the bridge may be gone.

From that point on, it's all snow travel to Copper, and fairly steep. We camped at the small tarn separating Copper and Malachite Lakes, on about 8 feet of snow. Copper Lake is still completely covered with snow, but it's lovely. There was only one other party sleeping over in the area.

LATE REPORT: June 13,14,15 climbing trip to Dome Peak.Weather exceptional.

Probable that not much has changed in 3 weeks since we were there.

* Downey Creek trail has numerous downfalls to negotiate and lots of water to negotiate. Creek crossings were high but manageable. The one crossing 1 mile before Bachelor Creek is worst. We lost 2 ski poles, and one of us took a brief dunking, going each way. Next time we'll just walk across or usegood stiff staffs.

*Bachelor Creek crossing still on log, which sometime in coming years will give out. Try crossing with pack belts unbuckled in case you fall in. Creek swelling and high.

*Trail up to bachelor meadows, east side, is easy to find, but is not maintained. First 11/2 miles in good shape. From there you start bushwacking. We crossed on snow still covering creek, in middle of open Avalanche basin about 21/2 miles from Downey Creek. We saw other spots further downstream on logs.

*Base camp: instead of following bachelor creek to headwaters below Cub lake Pass, we opted to follow beautiful wide snowchute up to ridge about 1 mile sw of pass. Great sites to camp with views. our plan to follow ridge to pass the next morning didn't work, as its not a scramble - there is a rapple in there. However, there is room to drop down on nw side and still negotiate around ridge. Snowpack around our tent fell 4' while were gone on climb: in one day!

*Route to Dome peak: The 600'drop to Cub lake is snowpacked deep. So, rather than downclimb to Cub, cross basin,then ascend, we chose to traverse north staying up high around the bowl at about 6,800-7000'. We did it without ropes, due to great soft snow conditions. however, crossing it on rock and heather is not advised. We also didn't downclimb to Cub lake as there is nothing stopping a swim in lake, unless roped. We returned via Cub lake basin, where avalanche damage is considerable.

*Dome peak/glacier: We roped up but encountered no hidden crevasses. Stunning beauty here. Final ascent was on snow all the way. At 8935' we could see virtually everything. We chanced a late summiting at 5:30pm, and made the return to basecamp under starry skis. Advise base camping closer to peak. it was just too far. Private stories of this return we'll save for friends.

*Overall: We all agreed this was one of all time greats, but also most rugged. Doing it in 3 days way to short. 40+miles and 10K gain, bushwacking, etc. in 3 days? Not next time. There were great glissades, and this portion of ptarmigan traverse is breathtaking, especially jumping off edge of cornice to glissade down at one point! Wow!!

This is one STEEP trail. There's not much of a trailhead parking area, you just park on the road and start hiking up it. It changes to trail at a sign put up by a motorcycle club claiming that they rebuilt the trail in 2000. Gee, first they destroyed it, then they had the decency to repair it, how terribly generous. The trail goes more or less straight up a wide path. Yellow hill it was too due to the arrowleaf balsamroot everywhere.

At about 3 miles the trail levels out and becomes more of a trail and less of a motorcycle highway. Just beyond a small creek is a patch of snow in dense woods where it is possible to get lost. Beyond this the trail goes back into open meadows and is snow free, then just before the ridge line below Yellow Hill is another snow patch on a steep slope, which is where I turned around. Views from here are fantastic.

Went for a early season backpack with the troops... Couldn't even think about crossing the White Pine Creek (Uh, I mean River!) Lots of blow-down and muddy trail, note to self, next time take an axe and shovel!

Trail became 30-50% snow covered at junction with the Frosty Pass trail and river crossing... Blow down started early on the Frosty Pass trail and way too much snow, so we decided to walkout. Better to wait a month or so.