Wasn’t expecting to go for a hike today, but was in Quilcene working on a project. Was able to cut out early. Grabbed lunch at the Gear Head Deli (amazing turkey sandwich). Got talking to a local, told me his favorite hike was just a couple miles up the road. On a clear day like today, will be spectacular views. I grabbed a bottle of water, chugged it down, refilled it, and headed up. 5 minutes later I’m at the trail head. 2:30

The incline was consistently steep. It’s only 2 miles to the top, but you might need a couple breaks along the way. Trail is in beautiful condition. Native rhododendron and azaleas line the path. The fir trees provide good cover from the heat, but allow just enough sun to get through making for a good sun ray show.

A father/son passed by coming down, said “make sure to get to the south view today, only another mile round trip, follow the road at the top, well worth it.” Once at the top, north view was clear, Mt Constance, Jupiter, and Quilcene Canyon…hiked over to the south view point. Spectacular view of Hood Canal and Mt Rainier. U can see in the far distance, the Emerald City.

On the way down, w such a steady descent, I can’t help but want to run down, but be careful, the dirt is dry and the gravel is loose. Still a lot of roots to look out for too. Recommend good trail running shoes if so, best to just take it in and watch your step.

Beautiful day and an unexpected good time. Good work out too, for only being 5 miles r/t, it can be a fun challenge. I don’t recommend for young kids, the incline might be a bit much.

Took an early morning jaunt up the Mount Walker trail with my dog. Trail in great shape and the rhododendron are out. No view at the top today but a great day nonetheless. Bring extra water for your furry companion. Was a nice cool day but any warmer and stops will be needed.  Sustained climb all the way to the top.  

Mount Walker was quite the doozie. 2800ft of elevation gain in a little over 2 mikes had me begging for a flat part of the trail of which there was none. The trail is a constant steep switchback after switchback. There were a few rhododendrons that were starting to bloom which made the trip a little bit easier. The hike started in sunshine but then downpour. By the end of the hike, the entire trail was a small creek draining water down the mountain which soaked everyone. Unfortunately upon getting to the top, the clouds obstructed the view. Definitely not a hike I’d take the kids on as it’s not for the faint of heart.

Great day on Mount Walker! I arrived at the small parking area across from the trailhead at 9 a.m. snagging the second to the last official spot. The trail is dry and in excellent condition. The rhodies are not out yet and don't look close...maybe three more weeks? The viewpoints were lovely. I guess you have to walk on the road after the first viewpoint to get to the second viewpoint. A number of cars passed me so the North viewpoint (I think) was busier than the trail. It was a huffing and puffing hike. Bring water and consider it a hard hike even though it's nice and short. When it's drier, I imagine there will be risk of slippping and sliding with all that incline on the fine loose rocks and dirt. Here's to catching those rhodies.

Started at 6am. One group in the lot, but otherwise I had the trail to myself until I breaked at the summit at 7am. I saw two groups there. Walked to the north view point and headed back down around 9am. Saw quite a few more groups on the way down. Lot looked about full when I got back around 10am. 
Trail was in good condition. One downed tree that was easy to pass about 15minutes in.