Arrived a little bit before noon on a partly cloudy Monday. The parking lot was mostly full but still had spaces available. This is a short, very steep hike with no real views until you get close to the top. Even though it was a weekday, we saw a steady stream of hikers on both the ascent and the descent. I was surprised to come across several wildflowers that I had not see before although I suspect that at least some of them are non-native. Views at both of the paraglider launch spots were both quite rewarding, although the clouds blocked the Mount Rainier view today. We did not get to see any paragliders take off but there were a couple making preparations as we enjoyed a short snack at the top. We also found some delicious, ripe thimbleberries just behind the very top of the trail! The descent took nearly as long as the ascent due to the dry, steep and rocky trail surface - I was very happy to have my trekking poles. Apart from the views, I also enjoyed the small wildflower garden adjacent to the parking lot which is currently bursting with colors!
4.5 miles, 2 hours 45 minutes, 1,700 feet elevation gain
Comments