Gombu Wilderness Cliffs, Wilderness Peak Loop — Thursday, Apr. 17, 2025

We had a fantastic spring hike to Wilderness Peak today from the Whittaker Trailhead off Hwy 900. One car was in the TH lot when we pulled in just before 9:00.  It was 49 degree with sunny skies.  The Th porta potty was smelly but had TP.  This is a great hike because you get a great workout from the outset as you head straight up hill on short zigzag switchback sections.  We followed the Wilderness Creek & Whittaker Wilderness Peak trails to Shy Bear Pass.  Continuing on we wound up to Wilderness Peak 1621’.  We took a short snack break on the Kuwai Family bench and filled out the peak trail log.  The entire trail was hard packed wet well drained soil, descending on the Wilderness Cliffs Trail it was steeper and a few more exposed rocks and roots.  Spring foliage and blooms were bursting out everywhere.  We saw fringe cup, miner’s lettuce, salmonberry,  yellow violets, Oregon grape, trillium, bleeding heart and stinky bob at peak bloom.  Trail traffic was super light we passed 2 solo trail runners and 2 other small groups and 2 dogs our entire time out.  When we pulled out of the TH lot at 12:25 only 2 cars parked there.  A great hike to avoid crowds.  Another great day out in nature with friends.