Bullitt Fireplace Trail, Central Peak, East Side Trail, Old Griz, East Ridge Trail & Phil's Creek — Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025

Hi everyone, Jeno and I did not hike all the trails I listed but we saw a sign dated 1-13 in one of the kiosks up there this morning that showed the status of those trails so I listed them. (See my photo).   We're not sure what SMAT is referencing.  We wondered if they are referring to the Sycamore Access trail?  Bottom line plan accordingly if you're on the east side of Squak Mt. given some of the trails are closed.

As for our hike we made a short loop going up the Bullitt Fireplace trail to the fireplace and then down to the Central Peak trail which we took back to where it connects with the Fireplace trail.   

When we started at 6:00 AM it was a frosty 28 degrees.  We ran into our friend Mike and his three dogs within the first 1/4 mile up the trail then didn't see anyone for a long time.   Both the Fireplace and Central Peak trails are clear of trees with everything cut up and pushed aside.  The latter looked to have had more damage from the storm based on what we saw.

We saw one runner on Central Peak who upon seeing us turned around and took off in the other direction.   Jeno said we must look scary and I said or we smell.    :)   

Other than the runner and Mike we only saw one other hiker this morning on our return to the cars.  Trails were in good shape with some slick spots (very minor) in places. 

Stay safe everyone.  See you on the trail.   SR