Wilderness Peak Loop, Squak Mountain Connector & Long View Peak — Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024

RWHG had a great winter hike on Cougar Mtn starting from the Whittaker Wilderness trailhead today.  We pulled in just before 9:00 only 2 other cars were parked there.  It was 45 degrees with overcast skies.  Rain was forecast for most of the day.  The Porta Pottie was open and had supplies.  A temporary Th laminated trail map was on a sandwich board sign.  Perhaps the old covered wooden TH kiosk is being replaced.  King County Parks do an incredible job of maintaining all their trails. THANK YOU!!  We talked briefly with KCP employee who was out with a hand saw clearing small downed tree debris on Ghombu / Wilderness Cliffs trail.  Our 7ish mile hike went up Whittaker Wilderness, right on Squak Mtn Connect trail, left on Ghombu / Wilderness Cliffs, up to reconnect with the Whittaker / Wilderness Peak trail up to the memorial bench.  We walked up just after 11:00 in a light rain so we decided to take a short rest / snack break and have a birthday celebration complete with brownies and black bottom cupcakes. Continuing on just after 11:30 we went down to Shy Bear Pass and made a side spur over to the Long View Peak to burn off a few calories and extend our hike.  All the trails were in great condition except one muddy area before the bridge crossing over Wilderness Creek.  Several of the trails also have new wooden trail signs.  Spring is starting to pop, yellow violets and miner’s lettuce with blossoms open. Wildlife sightings were limited to a couple bird species. Trail traffic was practically non-existent today, most likely due to the continuous rain.  We saw less than 5 others using the trails.  One car was in the TH lot when we all pulled out at 1:40.  Another fantastic day out in nature with friends. ❤️ Love Local Trails