I loved this hike! Last year I went from the Hummocks TH to the Johnston Observatory in the snow, and I was curious what the trail would be like in the summer. That part was fine, the normally astounding views of Mt. St. Helens being somewhat lessened by the hazy atmosphere.
Reaching the visitor center we continued on to the junction with the Truman/Coldwater peaks trails, and decided to take the left and explore towards Mt. Margaret. This involved some uphill, with amazing views of Spirit Lake. The terrain became less pumice field and more mountainous, with abundant huckleberrys and strawberries. The wildflowers were getting a bit dry, but still lovely. We had lunch where the trail passed through an amazing rock archway, cool and shady. We took another left onto the Coldwater Peak trail, with more rocky terrain and awesome views north and east. Reaching the South Coldwater trail, it was a very pleasant descent back to the highway with views of Coldwater Lake and old logging equipment left from the blast. A short hike along the highway brought us back to the trailhead.
The trail was surprisingly varied and interesting, with great views (and berries!) Some of this route is shared with mountain bikers (we saw 3) but everyone was very polite and accommodating. According to Gaia, the total distance was 16.48 miles, 3,189 feet elevation gain. For us, with a few stops, that translated into 8 hours car to car.
I hardly know this area at all, but it was an easy drive from Olympia (1 1/2 hours) and I will definitely be back to explore.
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