Dog Mountain — Friday, May. 7, 2021

Even though the weather was not supposed to be great, we decided to go! Left Federal Way around 5am and made it to the trail head just shy of 0830. Parking lot already had about 15-20 cars. First half mile up is filled with switch backs, quickly gaining elevation. Once at the trail junction, we took the "difficult" route. Rain was coming and going. Eventually, we made it out of the trees and into the meadows. 0.5 miles to summit, we were blasted by sleat and extreme wind. We were already soaked from previous rain and could barely see ahead of us on the trail. The two of us and our dog followed a few other small hiking groups to a small sheltered area to wait it out and attempt to summit, as we could see the sun partially coming out over the Columbia. After a few minutes we tried to carry on, but the sleet continued. It was extremely difficult to just walk because it was pelting our faces and our hands were getting so cold from being wet. It was hard to see in front of us. Most people at that point turned around and we decided to do the same, sadly. We deemed that it was not safe to push on. It took us a good 45 minutes to warm our hands up as we decended back into the trees. Coming down was a slippery mess, lots of mud and more rain. Was butt hurt about not summiting because I've never turned around before finishing, but I'm glad we played it safe. Lots more people going up, I hope the weather improved. Back down to the car by 1130, after many stops for pictures, removing layers, etc. Wildflowers were stunning, even in the gloomy and cloudy conditions. Hope to be back next spring, but will hope for sunshine! WTA states that this hike is 6 miles RT. Signage at trailhead states 3.8 miles to summit on the "difficult" trail. I would rate this as a moderate hike with a few steep and tiring sections, if you have done Mt Eleanor, you could easily compete this hike.