The trail was very well maintained. Thank you, Northwest Motorcycle Association! (Side note, if you see motorcycles on a multi-user trail, give them a friendly wave. This community does a lot to maintain the trails that they are allowed to use.)
Do not follow GPS from eastbound US2! It took me via a Forest Road that was…interesting. The WTA-recommended route via 97A to Entiat River Road is suitable for all vehicles.
Mad River is a beautiful trail that winds up through a river gorge, ascends the canyon wall for expansive views, and goes back down to the river. Wildflowers are just a bit past peak.
There are no real feasible campsite options other than the ones mentioned in the hike description. I had planned to set up at Camp Nine, which is about 6 miles down the trail (?) but was discomfited by the looming snag. See photo. There were very high winds forecasted that evening and I would not have felt comfortable sleeping within falling range of the snag. Not knowing what the campsite situation was further down the trail, I made the decision to return to my car. So, a 12-mile training hike with a 30-pound pack. All in all, not a bad day in the outdoors. :)
Comments
Bob and Barb on Lower Mad River Valley
You passed us as we were having a late lunch and we shared a wave! I didn't ask where you had camped as you seemed to be on a steady pace! I am wondering what forest road the GPS took you on! I am sorry you didn't get to camp, but it is a beautiful trail to have traveled! Barb
Posted by:
Bob and Barb on May 11, 2024 12:26 AM
Lenore on Lower Mad River Valley
GPS took me down FS 7520 and 5800. Yes, it was beautiful!
Posted by:
Lenore on May 11, 2024 11:34 AM