The short length of this hike fooled us - the two miles are straight up switchbacks. We passed a number of other people on the trail, it was cool and rainy with fog as we climbed higher. Ate lunch at the top and unfortunately missed the view because it was too foggy! After the grueling hike we felt a little cheated to see people drive up and get out on the top haha, but it was a good challenge that didn't require us to drive too far. 

Really pleasant and scenic views went to both viewpoints, started early before it got to 80 degrees. First place I've ever seen rhodendrums in the national forest. Enjoy it was a good strenuous elevation. 

Submitted via http://www.trektidings.com/

We had a great training hike but somewhere along our way down, starting at the southern viewpoint, my phone went missing and we weren't able to locate it after driving back up and walking down again.
If found, please send a message to: 2 two four - seven 8 nine - 8 five four 9

Beautiful trail, very well maintained and great views from the top. Steady incline most the way.

Sharing a trip report because I think the native rhododendrons along the trail are darn near their peak! They don't all go at the same time, and some are already past, but the entire trail was filled with bright open blooms. It didn't look like many were yet to bloom; most were open. So, if you want to see the rhodies, it's a great time to go.

We went in the rain, carrying our 45 lb packs to train with, and the grandparents and our toddler came along too. The toddler rode with grandpa most of the way, of course. Note the tiger lily blooming along the road near the beginning of the trail. It was a nice surprise!

We love using this trail to train because while a little more steep in comparison to Mount Si, it is much smoother with less steps, rocks, and roots. Below I have linked a few more pictures from my website.