Got a somewhat early start Sunday morning to get in some elevation conditioning. At least a half dozen cars were parked at the trailhead (likely all were backpackers). Trail was in great condition (as per usual). I could really start to feel the sun for the push of the final mile to summit. Passed a few hikers on their way down from spending the night, but was surprised no one passed me on their way up. Once I got to the summit, there was no one there. I mean NO ONE. By this time it was around 930AM and I expected there to be at least a couple of groups of people, perhaps those who hiked up a different route, but nope. I spent some time meandering on top and finally settled to take in some views, have lunch, and enjoy a bit of a cat nap. The entire hour I spent up there, I did not see ANYONE until I was on my way out. I spoke to a fellow hiker who parked at the Little Quil Trailhead and he stated he was the only car at the trailhead when he was beginning his hike. As I continued on to meet up with the trail to take me back down to my car, there they were...the people. I feel incredibly lucky to have spent all that time at the top of Mt Townsend by myself. However, I was never truly alone due to all of the bugs. The bugs are HORRID right now. I applied bug spray several times, which helped, but never truly got them to go away. They were everywhere!
I am still a bit miffed as to why there wasn't the crowd I was anticipating on the trail on Sunday...I have determined the smoky haze out towards the East (Hood Canal/Seattle/etc) deterred hikers from making the trek, but I could be wrong. Besides the few dogs who were off leash, it was a completely enjoyable day hike.
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