A quick trip up to the viewpoints was rewarded with puffy clouds hanging in the blue sky, and wonderful views.  White and purplish trillium are still splendid, rhodies are just starting to bloom

This is a great trail but it's super steep for the average day hike, so more aligned with athletic/exercise goals than a walk in the woods. The trail is well maintained and you can basically walk on it without worrying about tripping. On Sunday my morning hike started out nice and cool but I ended up in the clouds so no majestic views. Ah well. Next time I might hike again, or drive! The hike was definitely a positive experience that kept my heart racing and my body sweating :)

Trail is in excellent condition - no mud, nice & grippy.  Some trillium blooming along the lower sections. Rhodies still look to be a ways out from blooming.  Promised my quads an easy day so I came down the road - traffic was light but in future I'll stick to the trail when gate is open.  

Up up up, down down down! Mount Walker was a challenging way to open the hiking season for us, but completely survivable. The views were worth it, even with some clouds. We discussed walking down the road, but the trail down ended up being fine with some poles to save the knees. The trail is in great shape and the soft, even surface makes the gain and loss feel easier. 

Saw only tiny patches of snow at the top 

Trail in superb condition, and snow is mostly gone, at least until you get to the north viewpoint. There was a light dusting overnight, but the remaining snow on the trail can easily be walked around if you wish. Once you reach the north viewpoint and road, the snow is pretty constant. Not difficult at all though...just take it slow, since it can be a bit icy. Unfortunately no views today. Took the trail up and walked the Forest Service road down. Still a beautiful day in the forest!