Lime Kiln Trail — Sunday, Oct. 17, 2010

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

I arrived at the trailhead just before 10am and with the temperature still in the low 40s F but bright clear skies. The trail was damp from condensation, but there was no real water standing anywhere there was not a stream. Overall the trail is in good condition except for one big washout with a very narrow path above a steep drop-off. Navigating it while it is damp or has water running across it is/was tricky. There were lots of different kinds of mushrooms on the trail with there being lots of fall leaf litter and the trail being on the shaded south bank of the South Fork Stillaguamish. Sadly many of the most interesting ones were destroyed by incoming kids and were no longer there on my way out. I did manage to see and photograph three different garter snakes even witht he cold temps. They seemed content to sun themselves while I snapped photos as long as I didn't block their sunlight. There was one car parked outside the gate when I pulled up, and I met a group of two people and two dogs on their way out as I was on my way in. I had the entire trail to myself until I was nearly half way out. From there I passed 35 people and four dogs in 11 groups on their way in. I was glad to not be stuck trying to take pictures around people for once and the people coming in where quickly bunching up. I imagine the kiln was a complete zoo for most. Does a bear? Well you'll have to too. The state has started taking out the privies for the season and you'll either need to stop in town or be sure you have your emergency roll.