Iron Goat Trail — Sunday, May. 17, 2009

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West

At the trail head of the West end of the trail on the old cascade highway by 10am. No other cars. We were going to take the upper trail but as we climbed to the first bend we spotted a black bear standing at a tree, about 40 yards ahead of us. It didnt seem to notice us or care, as it dropped to the ground and meandered out of site. Regardless, we decided to give it some space and took the lower trail. Interesting historical markers along the way. I'd like to see this at the Monte Christo site. We walked in jut over 2 miles to the long wall. Lots of spring colors and smells. Some mesquitos. I was surprised by how many humming birds were on this site. No biger than a few inches. Worth the trip. We will be back to set up the cars so we can walk the entire 9 miles. Picked up a book about the Wellington event called The White Cascade.