Spray Park — Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021

It was a cooler day with some clouds but a nice break from the super hot days we've had, perfect for hiking. I overheat easily (my DNA puts me in the foggy hills of Scotland) as do my siblings. The TH starts from the Mowich Lake "campground" which looks like a parking lot, it lacks everything I appreciate about camping, but I digress. The trail is in good shape, you descend for a mile or so (?) before you encounter steps, lots of steps, up and down, through a tranquil forest. There are few water crossings, impressive water volume in two of them. Eventually you hit the final ascent, switchbacks with steep, rocky trail but uphill is quite doable, it's the descent that poles are definitely beneficial for old hikers with original knees. Crossed paths with a number of hikers on multi-day treks, enjoy talking with them and getting their stories and experiences. Hikers love to talk about hiking. Met a dad with his 10-month old daughter Lucy who was smiles from ear-to-ear. Met a solo hiker finishing up a 5-day trek, she had good experiences to share. Met another solo hiker just starting a 96-mile trek who appeared to be almost as old, with knees double-taped and wrapped. Met 3 young women on a 6-day trek (3 days into it) on a figure eight route. Once we arrived at the "top" to gorgeous meadows, streams, peaks, and wildflowers on their way out, it was worth the steep, rocky mile or two. The sun was not at it's best but it was a perfect PNW day with a few low clouds dancing across Hessong Rock and Fay Peak. Never saw Tahoma because of the low clouds. Found a large rock formation to rest and eat. Hikers continued to pass by from multiple points of entry. Lots of happy hikers. This is a beautiful hike and even with the number of hikers we met, it never seemed crowded at all. Tracked 8.2 miles with 2,300' EG. Arrived back at Mowich "campground" just as the rain started. The "campground" had become wall-to-wall tents. Apparently there was a running event that brought many participants to the "campground". It was comforting getting into a dry and warm truck! I felt bad for those trying to stay dry in their tents, but we all live here because we love the rain, right? Great hike, put it on your list.