Snoquera Falls Loop — Sunday, May. 28, 2023

We arrived about noon to a half full parking lot on the Memorial Day weekend Sunday. We hiked the loop in a clockwise direction to do the rocky left side of the loop in the uphill direction. My knees appreciate the softer trail on the right loop in the downhill direction. The trail is mostly shady but with several open, breezy viewpoints on the left loop. There is a scramble straight up to the base of the falls and poles were very helpful on the way down. At the falls the wind would occasionally catch the water and send the spray sideways for a cool effect. Crossing the creek was very easy today but I think I will try this hike earlier in the spring for a higher water volume. At the base of the falls there would be a peek-a-boo view of the summit of Rainier but the only cloud in the sky obscured it today. We drove up to Chinook Pass after the hike for better views and to see the snow there. No wildlife on the trail today but saw one Elk in the river near The Dalles campground, a herd close to Greenwater, and (no kidding) a sunglass wearing Sasquatch by Federation Forest. He was friendly and waved when I honked. I wish I had a dash cam! Huckleberry shakes at Wapiti Outdoors finished a great day.