First visit to Saddle Rock and I decided to hike from the northwest end, rather than the original main trail to the southeast. I had heard the trail coming from the north (Jacobson Preserve) was more gradual, and that felt like my cup of tea today!
Hike started by attempting to park in the special Jacobson Preserve parking at the Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club. The special spots in the paved lot are currently closed, but signs direct you to a gravel lot just to the north, at the intersection of Number 2 Canyon Rd and Skyline Dr, extending your walk just a smidge.
Note there are no bathroom facilities available here or in the Racquet Club (unless you're a member), so make sure you've done your business prior to arrival! :)
Strolling into the Jacobson Preserve, I was very impressed with the signage which included information about the Preserve, posted maps, paper maps, QR codes, brochures, dog poop bags, and even leashes!
The Preserve trails are a bit of a choose-your own adventure maze, with some designated for foot traffic only, and other trails open to bikes as well. The trails are in great condition with lots of wildflowers still blooming.
Just after passing out of the preserve, I took the Saddle Rock Traverse trail which offered a gentler incline and even more wildflowers in bloom, with fragrance increasing as I climbed. I was even delighted to find a few Mariposa Lilies! Very much enjoyed the Saddle Rock Traverse for the flowers, birdsongs, fragrance, view and relatively easy walking.
Once you reach the Saddle Rock area, you'll find benches to rest on, and a variety of foothpath options to reach the actual saddle - the path with the most wear seemed to be the "right" option to get to the saddle.
I encountered a few folks on the trail, mid- to-late morning on this warm and wind-free Friday, with more coming up as the morning went on. My total roundtrip mileage was about 5.75 miles, which included some possible "wrong turns" in the Preserve and a little wandering once I reached the top.
Comments