Intended to visit another trail. Found the shaded curvy sections of the Mountain Loop Highway thickly covered in frost and retreated. The three miles of forest road to the Boulder River trailhead still have their fair share of potholes but that was safer than sliding off pavement into a ditch.
Arrived at the smaller elliptical shaped parking lot 1 of 4 cars and I was the only one left 3 hours later. The first 3/4 mile is an easy climb up a road bed. Trail narrows and got a few more rocks and roots from there.
The first waterfall at 1.3 miles was the highlight for me. If you are satisfied and/or do not have much time, make your lunch spot here and return. I had time so I kept going. The 2nd waterfall pops out at 2.5 miles. From there, I am not sure the risk is worth the reward. The final mile+ has multiple water crossings and a few single log bridges. On the longer log crossing less than a half mile from my campground/river turnaround, you can drop down in the mud and sticks to avoid. I did that on the way and then attempted the log bridge on the way back. Confirmed that dropping into the mud both ways would have been the better choice. Did not need micro spikes today but glad I had my hiking poles.
While I do not like sliding on frosty roads, I love seeing the trees covered with specks of white above the gray green water. Had a good one. Hope yours is better.
Happy Trails!
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