I got word that the lookout structure on High Rock is scheduled to be removed for renovation and decided I wanted to get up there before its gone. Break in the weather and midweek time off meant it was time to go. And dogs are welcome here just outside the National Park.
Came up forest road 84, it has lots of pot holes, some worse than others, but its a forest service road right. Be careful in a standard car, its passable and people did it. As many trip reports state the final road approach is covered in snow but melting out fast. I have a 4x4 truck but and probably could have made it but why take the chance out there. Adds a little less than 1.5 miles each way to the trail head. The major snow on the road only lasts for between .25 to .5 of a mile so you wont have to walk on it the whole time.
The trail starts clear and easy to follow single track for the first half. Route finding and patches of snow slowed us down a little bit. We are experienced off trail so used some tricks to find the way. Don't depend on snow tracks as they can melt out throughout the day. More snow further up. Trekking poles were great. We didn't use any traction devices, just boots. Had gaiters but they were overkill and not necessary.
The trail itself is short and never got overly steep. There are 2 benches along the trail for breaks but not much for views until much higher.
Views here were terrific. 360. Rainier huge to the north. Looking right down the throat of St Helens, Adams impressive, Goat Rocks to the East. Hood in the background. And a clear day made me a happy boy.
So recommend this trail. We only saw 11 people total and had the top to ourselves for quite a while. Don't count on it staying that way when the snow is gone.
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