Cathedral Rock, Peggy's Pond — Friday, Sep. 10, 2010

Snoqualmie Region > Salmon La Sac/Teanaway

I Tried to escape the rain and drizzle of Seattle by going east of the mountains. Yes, it was raining at the pass, but the trail weather to Peggy’s Pond and back was rain/drizzle free! The last 12 miles of road to the trailhead are actually more like 14 miles due to your zig-zagging across the road to avoid the potholes and some huge ponds in the road. The trail was in ok shape but quite muddy from the recent rains and horses. No berries left for treats but I know they were there earlier from all the purple spots on the rocks. Fall colors are just beginning. The hike through the meadow and tarns beneath Cathedral Rock is beautiful. View of mountains from Cathedral Pass and beyond was cut off by low clouds, but a couple times I got a sneak view of Mt Daniel(?) and some remaining snow fields. I met 2 hikers on the pass who had spent 3 days backpacking, and were on the way out and really looking forward to having dry socks on again… they said it rained the entire trip. The trail to Peggy’s Pond is worth the effort .. even though as previous reports say, it has some steep parts and in one place you need to use your hands. Lunch at the Pond was wonderful..nobody there, the sun came out for 15 minutes, and peace. On the way out there were 3 overnight groups headed up. I heard gun shots across the valley..guess I should have worn bright colors? My GPS said about 10.5 miles RT and 3000’ elevation gain (includes some wandering with Peggy). Great hike out of the rain!