Grass Camp — Saturday, Jun. 8, 2024

This was a gorgeous loop hike,  but I wouldn't consider doing it unless you have a map or a navigation app like Gaia to help find the way when portions of the trail disappear or significant downed trees require you to abandon the trail temporarily. Three more disclaimers:

1. This is a burn area, so don't enter it in windy weather that could bring the burned trees down.

2. Be prepared to navigate dozens of blowdowns (you'll want some leg strength and flexibility).

3. There's minimal shade. Bring hat/sunscreen if you're going on a sunny day. 

You can access this loop hike many ways. We parked our car where the Naneum Creek trail crosses Forest service road 9712. There's a small pull-out where a couple cars can park along the road. Look for the wooden sign that indicates Naneum Creek trail across from the pull-out. Walk a short distance downslope  (1/4 mile?) on the Naneum Creek trail to connect to the loop. We went counterclockwise.

 There are little streams along the trail for pooches, water refills, and melodic burbling. I'm guessing this is an especially pleasant hike in the spring or fall when weather is cooler and the wildflowers and fall foliage provide color against the white ghost trees. Our hike in June offered many pleasantries such as lush, mossy streams, abundant wildflowers, singing birds (including hermit thrushes and various warblers) and evidence of wildlife (elk and deer tracks and scat; a leaping deer). There were some views too, but I wouldn't call that the trail's main offering.

This hike is not for everyone. I enjoy a little bit of route finding, solitude (we met zero hikers), wildflowers, a loop, and the drier climate of the central Cascades, so I loved it.