Newhalem Creek — Tuesday, Apr. 13, 2021

I fixed this trail up today after seeing yesterday that it was open again and needing some help.  

Parked across the highway from Newhalem and rode my bike to the gate and trail start.  Rode a little beyond the gate but leaned against a tree where the logs got thick, didn't bother to lock it since I knew no one else would be here.
  
Great views on the road turned trail, several creeks in case you forgot your water.  Start of old trail needed many trees removed, first 200 yards seemed to take forever - I left the stuff in the first 75 feet so as not to attract attention.

Some areas needed little, I flagged step by step instructions in the one major problem spot.  This part isn't as bad as it looks going in, most of it is walked on logs.  Know it is short and conditions improve beyond.

Patchy snow started before the first big creek, I made it to the road bridge and took path down to the joining of forks.  The clippers I left near the trail were still hanging on a tree 2 years later, needed some oil but otherwise fine.  Hopefully they got some use.

On the way out I saw it still needs a little work, but much better than it was yesterday.  When you come (not if) bring a small saw, maybe clippers, or at least gloves so can throw off some sticks. 

On my bike ride out I took Generator 20 road and walked up the flood evacuation trail from the generator.  I had never been back here, trail climbs to a tunnel and pipe through the mountain, to the building at the start of the trail I had just worked on, crazy! 

I rode the Trail of the Cedars to the suspension bridge and back to my car.  

There could be a cabin with your name on it at Glacier Peak Resort in Marblemount, only 15 leisurely miles to this hike, and so many more!  All the comforts of home and then some, and an even better value with today's higher gas prices.  The sun came over the mountain and shone on my bed at 7:15 this morning, no need for an alarm.

About 100 miles from Seattle, close enough to drive your electric car, charge it up here and do short day trips.  There is also vehicle charging in Newhalem.  The restaurant is closed right now, cabins have kitchens, bring your own food and save even more!