Arrived TH at 9:15am. Already about 25-30 cars there. Couple of groups (church/youth?) getting ready to go. There was a Parks official checking for permits, talking to people, collecting 5 bucks.
Weather about 42 degrees, sunny, dry, no wind. This is a hike I do every spring but usually later in April because of snow. There was no snow this day at the top, and no wind, which is rare. Sunny and 56 degrees by noon. Several people basking in the sun at the top which faces South. Made coffee, ate my lunch and visited with others. Absolutely beautiful views! This outing, the trail took me about 2 hours and 5 minutes. Families and dogs (some leashed) on the way up. Encountered people who said they turned around before reaching the top.4
This trail is a good test of your legs and lungs for the early season. I elected to return to the TH by way of the Augsberger trail. (Doggy/Augie) I do recommend this for anyone who experiences knee pain on steep downhills. I think Augie adds about a mile or so, but the rate of descent is easier on the quadriceps, and knees.
Restroom available at the trailhead, short distance from the parking lot. Your America the Beautiful pass is valid at the Trail Head, by the way.
Comments
HonW on Dog Mountain
Thanks for the info. I have America the Beautiful Pass, do I still need to pay the $5 permit? Thanks.
Posted by:
HonW on Mar 27, 2022 01:52 PM
N Cascades hiker on Dog Mountain
No you don’t have to get a NW Forest Pass if you have ATB.
Posted by:
Hike-life on Apr 03, 2022 02:32 PM