Kelly Butte — Monday, Jul. 9, 2012

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410

Access Road: Gravel roads from 410 were snow-free with moderate wash-boarding. Last mile or two fairly rough. High-clearance vehicle recommended. About 40 minutes from 410 to trailhead. Heavy equipment in parking area. Remaining room for 4-6 vehicles with other parking available in vicinity. Weather: Warm with slight breeze. Southern exposure on steep portion of the trail can be thirst-making. No available water so bring plenty. Trail: First section of trail is actually an abandoned road. Climbs from 4400’ to 4500’ to overlook at original trailhead and former parking area. Along this section we saw a ground squirrel and the remains of mountain goat kill – mostly hair and a shoulder blade. North of the former parking area a pika called and emerged from the talus slope; from here the trail climbs 900’ to the lookout at 5400’. It initially switchbacks steeply through rock outcroppings, subalpine vegetation, and abundant colorful wildflowers: phlox, paintbrush, bear grass, lupine, and multiple species of penstemon. Other hikers saw a ‘large marmot’ in this stretch. As the trail nears the top, the grade moderates. Butterflies were abundant and included a Sara Orangetip, Coronis Fritillaries, Boisduval’s Blues, Hoary Commas, an Anise Swallowtail, Western Whites, a Duskywing and a Hairstreak. Birds included flickers, juncos, and a Townsend’s Solitaire perched on treetops near the lookout. We heard, but did not see, grouse as well as Varied and Hermit Thrushes. Trail was snow-free; some snow remained in the shade north of the butte. Views were grand: Tahoma (Mt. Rainier), the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the Stuart Range, and Goat Rocks; although numerous clearcuts marred nearby ridges. From appearances huckleberries and fall color (abundant vine maple) will be fall attractions. Image set at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/myake/sets/72157630520642020/