Dock Butte — Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2013

North Cascades > Mount Baker Area

Hoped to see tail end of Perseid Meteor Shower from a high, dark place, so decided to camp at the stone bench just before reaching Dock Butte. It was a great place to pitch a tent, and the views were beautiful, but we were really too late for the Perseids. The trail is in good shape, though a bit rooty in places. Despite recent rains, the trail was mostly dry, and thankfully not dusty. No snow to speak of, but the bugs (especially mosquitos) were plentiful and persistent, all night long. Be prepared with netting and you'll do just fine. There were still some wildflowers blooming: valerian, lupine, fireweed, pearly everlasting, and some others, but come here on a clear day and you're here for the views. About six parties hiked here (or to Blue Lake) on Tuesday (per the register), but we were the only overnighters. The stars were amazing!