Excellent workout today hiking up West Tiger 1 via Dwight's Way to the Preston Trail.
Dwight's Way is an absolute gem of a trail, even at less than a mile. However, it is clearly not well-frequented, as I broke every spiderweb with my face, one about every 5 feet. Oof. I ended up holding one trekking pole out in front, which worked until my arm got tired. I highly recommend taking this route, but bring a stick. It's pleasant, rolling, and lush.
Preston Trail also had some spiderweb activity, though nowhere near to the same extent. From where it meets Dwight's Way, it is straight up for 1/4 mile, and then levels out for a while. It felt like I was walking on an old railroad grade or logging road (both possible!). Once it intersects with Bootleg, it's up for most of the rest of the way. There is a middle section with a brief reprieve - even a descent! - but it doesn't last long. The last stretch is quite steep, but at that point you can see the top!
The very last bit, after the last Bootleg trail junction, is absolute mess. I assume this is a result of the windstorms this winter. It's been cleaned up best it can, but it's clear things are a bit unstable here. Watch your footing.
I went all the way to the Hiker's Hut and sat on the bench across from it watching the storms roll in. I was planning to descend the way I came, but decided not to face all the spiderwebs again and go a different way. I went down via TMT to where West Tiger 3 branches off, up to WT3, and then down to the main trailhead. From there, I took the spur trail through the woods along the road and walked the road the rest of the way to my car parked where the High Point Trail starts. 9.5 mi/2800 gain. This way passes a vault toilet, a nice bonus.
Trail was in good condition, all things considered. Certainly some muddy bits, especially on the Preston Trail, but nothing I wouldn't expect this time of year. I ended up removing my full gaiters, as they were just overkill. I especially appreciated the view across from the Hiker's Hut. Rainier tried to show herself, but was mostly obscured.
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