Coldwater Peak — Wednesday, Jul. 19, 2017

I was recently on a volunteer vacation at Coldwater Lake, where we worked on brushing the Lakes trail and portions of the Coldwater trail from the lake heading up. So I left from our campsite at the far end of the lake by the beach, and hiked a largely flat 1/2 mile on good trail through forest on Lake trail, then headed right and crossed creek on bridge. Then followed about 2 miles of uphill hike, first 1/2 mile OK, but the next mile super brushy and slumping trail in parts. (We remedied most of this in the subsequent 2 days of the VolVac, so there should be only a bit more brushy stuff left) Hard to see your feet. End of trail breaks out of heavy brush and intersects coldwater trail. Turn L and continue to climb above tree line, very good trail. Come to saddle, and see Mt. St. Helens - lava dome and all. Turn l and continue to climb. Saw Mountain goat hoofprints on trail but no animals. As trail unfolds, Mt. Hood comes into view, and then Mt. Adams; Lake St. Helens and Spirit Lake lie below the trail, sparkling in the water. Profuse wildflowers in red, purple, yellow, white, and blue all through hillsides. As you approach junction with the Coldwater peak offshoot, Rainier comes into view. The trail to the peak on the left switchbacks up 600 feet through more wildflowers; there are several snow patches to cross but not difficult and melting quickly. On top the vista is amazing - 4 volcanos, cascades, and clouds overlying Puget sound and the coast. Perhaps Mt. Baker visible far away? Great place for lunch while being overwhelmed by the spectacular scenery. Retrace steps for a 13.2 mile out and back - since most wont be leaving the WTA camp at the lack, would need to tack on 4 miles each way on the Lake trail, or start at the Coldwater trail for a round trip of ~11 miles. An awesome day hike, especially with good weather and clear skies. Only saw 5 other people the entire day...