Started off the hike by getting to see a deer and her baby foal prancing through the field just outside the ranger station near the parking lot. After a few minutes of watching them graze, it was off to the trail. Follow the marymere falls trail under the highway for about a quarter mile until you hit the sign for the stormking trail which will be on the left. From here the grind begins. Take in the views as the switchbacks on the way up begin to hint to you what is in store at the summit. You will find your breaks along the way up will be short as the bugs begin to swarm when you're not moving. It would be a good idea to bring some bug spray to try and keep the mosquito bites to a minimum.
There were a few downed trees along the route, the first was relatively early into the trail, and the second was about 3/4 of the way up. Both fairly easy to navigate. Other than these, the trail was in great condition.
The ropes section at the top can be a bit daunting, but easily navigable. These may not be a good idea for smaller children, but be sure to convince that hesitant member of your group that the views from the top are well worth the mental challenge. We were lucky enough to have the clouds clear up in time for our summit, allowing for some awesome photos of lake crescent. Enjoyed some mountain house pad thai at the summit while soaking in the views before heading back down. Be sure to take your time on the way down the ropes, it was scarier scooting back down than heading up.
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