Marmot Pass — Saturday, Jun. 7, 2025

Perfect time to go to Marmot Pass!  Wild rhododendrons and so many other wildflowers blooming! Phlox, glacier lilies, larkspur, white pasqueflower, checker lilies, saxifrage, paintbrush, desert parsley - on and on.  The hike through the forest is so pretty and you hear the rushing upper Quilcene River most of the way.  Then it opens up to OMG views of snow capped rocky peaks.  Going through Camp Mystery is pretty wet and the snow starts after that.  Pretty well packed down so no need for microspikes but poles are really helpful.  Snow crossing is intermittent to the pass.  Lots of hikers and backpackers but everyone seemed to find a spot.  This is also an amazing day hike especially with our long days in June.  Parts are steep and tough but it’s always pretty.  Had a nice riverside rest in my hammock on the way down - highly recommend!