The crowds were out in full force for the holiday weekend. The main lot was full, and many people parked at a paid lot down the road and walked on the shoulder to the trailhead.

We passed many people on our way up, including lots of kids and dogs. The trail is in good condition with very few drainage/brush issues. I was happy to see that saw teams had cleared two trees that were down the last time I hiked here.

I asked one young person to please not cut the switchbacks because it contributes to erosion on this very heavily trafficked trail. There are already social trails on many of the switchbacks, but please avoid using them and walk the extra 10 or so feet to the actual turn! I picked up some small pieces of trash, but overall people seemed to be practicing leave no trace.

There were a dozen or so people enjoying the view from the south launch, even with no Rainier view, by the time we got up there around 2:30. This was an extra special day because we got to paraglide down!

#HiketheState

Quick hike to find out how much out of shape I am for upcoming alpine hike in the summer.

Extremely busy parking lot as of 10.30 am, with folks blocking the entry lane as they were waiting for someone to leave. Turnover is high though, so getting a spot is a matter of a short wait. Four portable toilets at the trailhead, serviced and in a good condition.

The trail is muddy in spots; lots of wet rocks, so good grip on your footwear is essential. Quite busy too, as one can suggest from the parking conditions. Quite chilly winds at the top, so I didn’t stay for more than a couple minutes.

45 min up, 40 min down

Rarely does the Poo Poo Point Chirico trailhead have several open parking spaces on a Saturday, but rain in the forecast probably had something to do with it. Porta potties open in the parking lot.

The trail can be quite muddy with the occasional puddle on the trail, but no obstacles on the way up. We enjoyed a break in the clouds and felt the warm sun at the false summit, but a short walk to the true top lead us back into the clouds. Privy open at the top.

The forest is brilliantly green right now. No views today, but we still enjoyed the journey.

Forecast for rain in the air but except but it kept dry for 95% of time. Beautiful lush conditions (coming back here after ~ 3 months) and enjoyed the hike !

If this hike is on your annual hiker bingo card then this week is a great week to check that box.  The flowers and ferns in the lower section are on full display, and the trail is still just damp enough to give solid footing in the more sketchy sections.  Later as the trail dries out these become way more "skiddy".  I used poles both up and down.  Plus temperatures are ideal right now for the steep climb.  The middle part of the trail climbs on the south side of Tiger Mountain and that section can get pretty hot if the suns out, make sure to pack a drink.  Great views from both the north and south launching areas with clear blue skies.

Not a great hike for dogs as it's quite busy and narrow in places, and no water.  Leashes required so keep your pup close.  Parking was tight even on a Monday morning before 10:00, weekends you will need a "parking plan" for sure.  Respect the no parking areas and don't park in the lot's exit - I can't believe I have to mention that.  It makes getting out really hard - duh.  Porta potties decent but had to try the third one before I found TP.