Loowit Trail — Monday, Jul. 18, 2016

South Cascades > Mount St. Helens

Now is the time to enjoy this beautiful hike! Super-fragrant Lupine for miles, and no major problems getting water. Our group of 6 traveled counter-clockwise starting at Climber's Bivouac, camping by the dwindling water source by Pumice Butte and at the creek about a half mile south on the Toutle Trail after crossing the South Fork of the Toutle River. Along the trail there were several water sources in the blast zone as well as sources by Pumice Butte and on the Plains of Abraham. No water along the trail between the South Fork of the Toutle River and the Muddy River. I was able to rock-hop across all the streams and rivers we encountered. Only Loowit Creek gave us some trouble. Some in our group chose to ford it, I walked upstream until a suitable crossing could be found without getting my feet wet. :) The Northwest side of the loop had an abundance of ripe wild strawberries in addition to all the wildflowers in bloom. The trail is rough in spots (so many gullies! down-up-down-up) but mostly easy to follow with a good map. The sections with rope assistance were no problem but do watch for falling rocks from any companions above you. :) Overall perfect time to do the loop go while the flowers are still in their prime!