Mount Townsend — Wednesday, Jul. 24, 2024

This is one of my favorite destinations, but I was hesitant to go today because of the forecast, clouds moving in. Decided to go for it anyway, late start, got to the trailhead around 11am and snagged the last viable parking spot. Two cars that had been following behind me were able to park off on the shoulder, but the lot was totally full on a cloudy Wednesday morning. Mist and fog rolled steadily in as we climbed, but I welcomed the coolness as I was still sweating profusely from the workout. With no views to distract, my attention was focused on the plethora of wildflowers that blanketed the mountainside. Wildflowers were definitely the highlight of this trip. Dog and I made it to the top in a couple hours, no views at all, just wind and mist at the top. Fortunately I have been up at the summit numerous times before, so it was ok, but I’d say for anyone doing this hike for the first time, make sure you have clear skies in the forecast. It’s a lot of work to get up there, and you’ll want to be rewarded with the jaw dropping views. For me today, this was just what I needed!