For those who enjoy a brief synopsis: Trail road conditions were suitable for all vehicles- there are potholes, but large enough to be easily avoided. Trail was not too packed, no snow on the trail. Larches look like they have just started to turn gold. I would say maybe 1/4 (if that) are currently golden. So you still have a week or so left if you want to see them in their glory! Hike was short, very doable for most in about an hour and some change. Overall, a nice easy hike.
For those who enjoy a bit more detail: :] Hello there! Get ready for some details and a suggested packing list to be included towards the end.
Driving from Bothell - I took 405 to 90E and eventually 207. I had been checking the weather for Snoqualmie Pass and Cle Elum in the days prior to my hike - and it showed reaching sunny and 54F. I left a bit later than I normally do, to better prep myself for a warmer air temp. All roads were clear, weather was sunny until about 30 minutes prior to the trailhead. I hit VERY light fog in the last 30 minutes - but could still see 10+ cars ahead of me. It looked like it wanted to snow, but was not cold enough for it. (It was about 39F at this point.)
Getting to the trailhead - I followed Google Maps, and it brought me right to NF-9716 without issue. The turn off was pretty clear, and thankfully easy to reach. I have a FWD sedan, and easily made it to the parking lot without issue. I imagine even in light snow, the road would be suitable for all vehicles. There were several large potholes, but they were easy to see and maneuver around. Parking was ample, and there are two lots. I arrived after 2 hours, around 9:15 - there were about 8 cars there when I arrived. (Northwest Forest Pass is required here.) There was an enclosed toilet right at the trailhead start, though there was no toilet paper - condition was decent, but I would prepare to bring your own tissue/wipe and hand sanitizer if you think you may need to use it.
The trail - I suggest taking a photo of the trail map before starting the hike - visible from the parking lot. There is one giant loop you can do (you ross a dirt access road) or you can do the smaller loop. Though not necessarily super easy to get lost, the latter portion of the trail on the smaller loop is more enclosed in the woods, so it may feel like you are heading the wrong way. Follow the blue diamond markers on the trees- and you are good! The trail naturally inclines you to go towards the right (counter clockwise.) There will be a clear split in the trail- one that goes 'down' into a more wooded area (smaller loop) and one that keeps you straight, which will quickly bring you to the access road, which you would cross to continue the larger loop. (I believe this is the horse camp?)
The larches were just starting to turn gold- but I would say only about 1/4 of them are currently gold in color. I would guess there are 1-2 weeks left to see them in their glory. The hike itself was fairly accessible for most, but would not be accessible by wheelchair. There were two 'mini hills' which I would equate to a flight of stairs - barely any elevation gain, enough to make you take a deep breath, but overall nothing strenuous. The trail is pretty well marked and maintained throughout, with plenty of signs describing the different trees in the area. The only animals encountered were birds and chipmunks during my time on the trail. :] Because today was a nice sunny day- I was able to see the tip of Rainier amongst the sea of trees.
Overall - A great hike for all ages and experience levels. I had no kids or dog, did the 'smaller' loop - and even stopping to take many photos, I completed it in less than an hour. I imagine with more people/animals/kiddos - it may take 1-2 hours. A great way to see some larches up close without trekking to the North Cascades, and likely hitting a bunch of snow.
Packing List - As a disclaimer- I always over-pack. Since it is Autumn, and you are traveling to the Cascades- regardless of weather- I always bring rain/snow gear. In addition, I always have a set of dry clothes and shoes in my car to come back to (in case I get wet.) I was wearing leggings, fleece lined waterproof pants (which were taken off 20 minutes in because I was heating up), lightweight gloves and smart wool hat (also taken off mid-hike) and then a wool long-sleeve base layer, and light down jacket. I did not need any poles on this hike, but if you are worried about snowy/wet weather, it never hurts to bring them in case.
Of course, no hike would be complete without plenty of snacks and water.
Happy Hiking- I hope you enjoy your Larch March!
-Sam
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