Arrived at the parking lot at 1pm and it was packed... cars down the road for a mile. But, if you come late to the party, you might snag an actual spot in the lot (like me).
I quickly understood why I encountered many trail runners - the trail is really well maintained and not too rocky. Most people were COVID conscious, stopping to leave space and masking up when passing.
I arrived at Talapus in about an hour but decided to keep moving to enjoy snacks at Olallie. The trail to Olallie must have been recently tended to and I’m thankful for that. Great trail up along the creek, you get to enjoy some waterfalls and water sounds.
I arrived at Olallie around 2:40, and just hung out at the campsite near the creek, just past the day use site. Some rowdy teens motivated me to get moving about 20 minutes later.
Stopping by at Talapus on the way down was the way to go. At this point, many people were leaving for Olallie. I found a great spot to lay on a log to view the lake.
Back at the parking lot around 4:30pm and people were still arriving, some with packs! I get why - this is the perfect after work hike, lazy/beginner backpacking trip, or *i just need to get out into nature* hike that does not require a ton of planning. Well maintained, well marked, popular but not crazy.
Comments