After seeing recent reports for Oxbow Lake Trail my wife and I decided to give it a try, despite the chilly weather. It was a good choice and a nice afternoon hike. There were a few icy spots, especially on the bridge at the end of the lake, so care was needed. The trail was clear of downed trees (thanks to those who did the work) but their impact could be seen in several spots along the trail. We went clockwise around the loop, including a side trip down to the side of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River to sit and sip hot soup. After the bridge the trail ascends above the lake and follows the contour of the lake all the way around. It's a great way to see the lake from many different angles, especially now when the leaves are gone, and the views are less obstructed. Especially nice right now is that you can see the mountains in the background from the trail.
As always, when we go anywhere up the middle fork road I am in awe of deep, thick moss draping the trees and the ground. This time of the year, with the leaves fallen to the ground, the mossy branches twist and turn in the air, overlooking the lake below. The gnarly branches even sport growths of ferns way up in the branches.
There are two parking areas for the trail. The first one as you drive up the road is located at the start of the loop trail. The second one is the one that has the toilet facilities (clean and stocked). There is a 1/4 mile trail connecting the two parking lots. If you park in the first one, you will need to hike that far (each way) if you need the facilities. If you park at the second one you will need to hike that same trail at the start and end to reach the loop trail. The choice is yours.
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