Silver Falls Loop, Grove of the Patriarchs Loop & Nisqually Vista Loop — Sunday, Sep. 12, 2021

Started the day at the Ohanepecosh campground day use area, where I hiked the loop counter clockwise. I immediately spotted some ghost plants and was hoping to have a good mushroom day. Well, it’s a little early for mushrooms, but still a lovely hike. The falls are a worthy destination and the trail itself is a real treat. I saw 2 or 3 groups on each half of the loop. Long stretches of quiet. Kudos to the people who designed this trail. The trail takes you through the forest that feels magical with the sun shining through the tree tops and golden pine needles showering down with a little breeze. 
Next stop was Grove of the Patriarchs. Just when I was thinking I didn’t like this crowded trail, I had a quiet moment with the big trees and decided it was worth the stop. It’s sad that there are only a few left, but the big trees are quite a sight. 
Last stop was Paradise. I had to park in the overflow lot which put me right in front of the Nisqually Vista Loop. This is a sweet little trail that must be full of flowers earlier in the summer. I saw one hoary marmot that looks like it hasn’t missed any meals lately. Not the slightest bit shy, and very kindly stuck around for a long photo shoot. Other wildlife included a trio of camp robbers and a pond full of tadpoles. Plenty of blueberries if you haven’t had your fill yet.