Skookum Flats — Friday, May. 5, 2000

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410

Spring flowers are popping out in the cool forests of the White River. Spring is on the way. We saw trillium, yellow violets, shunk cabbage, salmonberry and calypso orchids. The first lilies are showing, as well as other forest beauties. The trail is an easy stroll, traveling north and south along the White River. Mostly in the forest, it passes through some areas of nice old growth. The trail was recently logged out by a mountain biking club, whose members take an active interest in the area. Mountain bikes are allowed in many of the trails around the Dalles and Camp Shepherd area. Snow levels on south facing slopes are hovering around 4,000 ft. and above. The summit of SunTop is showing only a thin layer of snow left, although if you look at Crystal Peak, there's still a lot of snow on the higher ridges. Horses, bikes and hikers are welcome on Skookum Flats. It could be a good beginners backpack. Road noise is sometimes heard over the roar of the White River. Access is on the north end from FS Road 73 and on the south, FS Road 7160.