We did this as a night hike starting out around sunset. It was completely dark by the time we got to the top and headed back down. There was some patchy snow at the very top of the loop. The weather was dry but foggy on the way up, then raining heavily on the way down. The trail worked well for a night hike. It would have been gorgeous with a full moon, but the rain was nice too.

We hiked the Big Creek Loop and added the side Mt Elinor connector trail to the view point for a total of 7.5 miles. Contrary to prior trip reports the trail is not entirely snow free . The loop trail has some small sections of snow and the bridges and benches are icy.

When we turned on the connector trail there is a lot of snow ranging from 2-6 inches deep as we gained elevation. See Photos for more info. I wore micro spikes on the wasy back down and was glad to have poles but others in the group had no problems.

We started out with blue sky and sunny weather; then it turned overcast and we had a hail storm at the top near the viewpoint and snack spot; then, as we came back down the sun came out again.

The lower restroom, the one closer to the parking lot was unlocked but there was no paper.

Easy to find and navigate! Parked outside of the campground entrance and followed the campground loop trail to the Big Creek TH. Light wintery mix was falling when we started and snow began accumulating as we gained elevation. At most there was only a few inches of snow on the ground which made it easy to cross with our hiking boots, no spikes needed. We passed 6 other hikers while completing the loop. As the description says, there are no vantage points so this hike is great for a rainy, snowy or cloudy day. 

The trails are snow free! There was a wee bit of slush on one bridge, but that will likely be melted by the time this is posted. A wonderful hike with lush carpet of moss, groundcovers such as rattlesnake plaintain and wild ginger as well as rhodies glistening after brief rain. Big Creek and all tributaries gushing like it was Spring. 

Some snow along side the trail early on, with full compact icy snow cover about a mile and half up and surrounding the bridges. Used microspikes for better grip. Could be possible without with careful step.

Love the vibrant colors on this hike and the rhododendron bushes are looking like they are starting to bud up.