Popular for Good Reason!
This is a very popular hike, but well worth it for the views and wildflowers.
- What Type of Trip? Quick overnight backpacking excursion.
- Where Did I Start? Upper Big Quilcene Trailhead.
- Where Was Camp? Camp Mystery, about 0.75mi and 500ft below the Pass.
- How Busy was It? Arriving at Camp Mystery at 6PM, there were only four open spaces, most of which were not level.
- How Were the Bugs? Mosquitos and flies. However, I found repellent wipes applied to exposed skin kept them away.
- How Was the Weather? HOT! But fabulous. I was soaked upon arriving at camp. It was 90F at the trailhead and not much cooler in the forest. Camp Mystery was comfortable and there was a light, cool breeze on the Pass. Wonderfully clear skies the entire time.
- How Were the Roads? The first gravel and paved sections were great. The last several miles on gravel have sections of extreme pot holes. Do yourself, your fellow outdoors people and your car a favor -- drive slowly.
- What Else? There are campsites past Camp Mystery. However, there are no water sources there. So, keep that in mind.
I got up early Saturday morning and headed up to the Pass where I had a very lovely, reflective and peaceful breakfast as the sun rose. After which, I followed the ridge to the top for more amazing views.
On the way out, I passed many couples and groups making their way up. It seemed to be nearly an even split between day hikers and backpackers.
This definitely wasn't a trip for solitude, but a very enjoyable nonetheless.
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