Arrived at the Lower Trailhead at around 10:15 AM on Saturday May 13. It was a crisp clear beautiful weather. There were lots of cars, at least 20~25 cars parked on the street when we arrived. The entrance to the Lower Trailhead is NOT well noticeable. Look to the left from the wider portion of parking area on the street. You will notice the trailhead sign after about 60~80ft into the path. The trail condition was not bad with some patches of snow after about 3900 ft and up. The snow was melting, felt slush and loose in the sunnier parts of the trail. Most of our group members used the micro spikes as we encountered snow covered path. This was the first time hiking the Mt. Ellinor for the majority of our 13 member group. Fortunately, all of our group members did well and enjoyed glissading downhill. It was a total blast! As a one reminder, if you plan to glissade, wear a waterproof pants if you don't want to be soaked on your bottom! I must say the view on the top of the mountain was one of my favorites in the entire Seattle area of hiking. In addition to the amazing view of Hood Canal and the Lake Cushman, the view of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams and Mt. St Hellen all possible on a clear day.
Just as a little regret, we were hoping the Upper Trailhead parking to be open but it was still closed.
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