Mailbox Peak - Old Trail — Sunday, Aug. 25, 2013

Snoqualmie Region > North Bend Area

First ignore guidebooks that say no facilities. While there is no running water, there are bathrooms in the upper parking lot. Use them before you go up! There is a new trail sign identifying where a new trail is being created. Walk past it until you see the sign for the trail. Read the information because it contains important details. Such as keep an eye out for white diamonds to know you are on the right trail. Red diamonds on your way back signify you are on the wrong trail. Was somewhat busy and many folks brought their dogs. There are some points where it's easier if the going-up hiker yields to the going-down hiker, so beware of that. I brought a walking stick and my knees thanked me going down. I was able to take it slow and steady, which meant I was not in pain today. I'm glad I brought moleskin bc the way up gave me blisters despite broken-in boots and good socks. I'm glad I wore boots for the way down bc there is lots of opportunity to twist your ankle! Bring lots of water. You will sweat it out going up. I finished my Camelbak and was happy I left a full bottle of water in the car. This is a great hike. Took me 2 hours both ways and I took my time going down. I saw a lot of hikers who did not seem prepared for this trip: not enough water, no support for going down, not enough clothes to keep them warm on the top. Bring a light jacket or shirt for the top. You'll have sweated all of the way up then suddenly find yourself in a cooler climate.