09may2022 MON .. just completed the Hamilton Mountain, Rodney Falls Lollipop Loop; went CW TH > Hamilton Mountain Trail > Hadley Creek Trail > Equestrian Trail > "The Saddle" > Hamilton Mountain Trail > TH.
i was the 3rd to arrive at the TH parking at 10:00. And when got back ~14:30, there were 4 vehicles (including mine). On my way UP to the Hamilton Mountain, i encountered (i) a Solo male Trail-runner /(ii) a Solo female Trail-runner & her dog coming down. ~0.2 mile in to Equestrian Trail, i came upon a Red Light Truck; a group of 3 young men, and 2 young women. They were setting up their Truck to winch (?) a blow-down that's blocking the Trail. They gave me "permission" to past through the blow-down. i thanks them for their clearing the blow-down. They were very nice and friendly.
On my way Down, i encountered a total of 7 people (5 adults, 2 toddlers) coming Up. Again, they were nice and friendly.
As for the Trails, not unexpectedly, it was wet and many muddy sections, especially at/near Rodney Falls and Hardy Falls - its passable - just be extra careful. i had my Trekking Poles to help keep me safe 😅
Btw, cos the ~0.2 mi walk down to the Hardy Falls Viewpoint was very IFFY muddy and steep, i turned around after ~50 ft. 😅
Very nice views of the surrounding mountains, the valley, and Columbia River. And Rodney Falls is a beauty 👍
Sweet solitude for ~4 hours .. and i am v happy 😊
Side-note: my Moto G Power may be a problem .. both my Alltrails and GaiaGPS malfunctioned .. luckily, only once .. 😅
The Stats may be inaccurate:
Distance: 7.6 mi / EG 2,064 ft / Total Time 4:35 (probably, missing the ~0.5 mile when "GPS signal lost"
The Restrooms by the Trailhead were opened and clean. Also, while sitting at the Trailhead picnic area during the past ~2 hours, i've met the Ranger .. chatted for a while .. He's very helpful and friendly.
Happy Trails Everyone 😊
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