The #larchmarch is on! As of 10/6/2024, the Subalpine Larch trees are at full peak golden glory on the Grasshopper Pass Trail.
The road leading to the trailhead (Hart’s Pass Road) is in pretty good shape, though be careful, of course, as there were several drivers flying up and down the road at pretty fast speeds. Lost Lake Road from Mazama to the intersection with Hart’s Pass Road is completely washboard. Your back and teeth will be sore after driving up and down that road!
On the first Sunday in October 2024, I arrived to the trailhead at 10:15 to find a full parking lot. However, I was able to park just 25-30 yards down the road.
There were several backpackers headed out as I was headed in. And, I saw a few PCT through-hikers on their way to Canada. Besides the backpackers, there weren’t too many day hikers.
All the larch trees are in peak golden color now. And, the needles are holding tight, for now. In a few of the larch groves along the trail there are patches of crimson blackberry bushes.
There is a very little bit of snow on/around the trail as you get closer to Grasshopper Pass. As of writing, there is no concern about needing any micro spikes… just be a little careful, especially on the downhill. Again, it’s not really even an issue, I just wanted to note it.
Birdlife was pretty fun, too. Quite a few Mountain Chickadees were singing their hoarsy “chick a dee dee” song. And, there was a flock of about 8 Mountain Bluebirds flying around a section and hovering for bugs. I’ve never noticed Mountain Bluebirds hover like that before - it was really fun to watch that!
What a sublime experience hiking this trail in early October!
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