Took the Little Quilcene trail to head up to Mount Townsend. Showed up late to the trail head at 2:00 pm, met the end of the morning crowd headed down the trail as we went up. Trail starts steep and doesn’t abate. Most of the elevation is gained in sections interspersed with flat/gently sloping trail. Very on and off in terms of grade. Not the easiest but very doable and the views at the top are well worth it.
Wildflowers were abundant at the summit (see pictures). Lucky to be hiking with a friend who was knowledgeable about the different types and enjoyed learning about the different species! Clouds obscured the eastern view but we enjoyed the Olympic mountains shifting in and out of sight as wind pushed things around. Slightly chilly at the top but nothing a fleece won’t solve. A few other hikers passed through the summit but plenty of room for everyone and ample space for us to sit and eat a late lunch.
Spent about 45 minutes at the top before heading back down the trail. Trekking poles recommended to make things easier on the knees if that is a concern. It took an hour forty-five to get up and an hour fifteen to get down.
Gorgeous hike on the way up and at the top. Road had some potholes but nothing unmanageable.
Hike start: 2:00
Summit: 3:45
Left summit at 4:30
Parking lot: 5:45
Comments