tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63657227448163071692012-02-13T00:10:21.135-08:00Ramblings of a northwest free-time hiker.edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.comBlogger2641100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-18722783634613379252012-02-13T00:10:00.000-08:002012-02-13T00:10:21.151-08:00

Another of the few days where the family calendar was absolutely blank and everyone seemed content to just kick back at home and enjoy the flexibility involved with doing nothing. Since everyone seemed to be well into their own groove, I grabbed my gear and set out to meet up with the Mount Baker Club for one of their 'short notice' outings. Today's intended destination was the Hertz Trail

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-47224391176248948732012-02-10T21:27:00.000-08:002012-02-10T21:27:30.299-08:00

Planning to go snowshoeing with my buddy Steve G. up to Skyline Lake (and probably beyond) which is located across the highway from the Steven's Pass ski area. Other alternatives also under consideration include Smithbrook Road, Lanham Lake, E. fork of the Foss River or possibly Wallace Lake via Wallace Falls State Park. Expecting to be back in cell phone coverage by dark. Happy Trails! ~E

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-11995136806962074052012-02-01T00:24:00.000-08:002012-02-01T00:28:01.343-08:00

We're already a full month into 2012. Unbelievable. If you are one of the elite few who purchased a copy of my 2012 Planner: Contemplating Adventures, I really hope you are putting it to good use and enjoying the photos selected for each month. Contemplating Adventures 2012 Planner by Eric D. Rolfs | Make Your Own Book One weak point in the layout of this planner is that it fails to give

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-54181205113743773132012-01-21T23:39:00.000-08:002012-01-21T23:39:34.411-08:00

My original plan to go snowshoeing with a Mount Baker Club group was cancelled due to snow. Ended up spending the morning with the family at home, watching the snow piling up. Finally noticed the snow letting up a bit and some obvious clearing on the horizon. Decided to verify that there weren't any existing plans for the afternoon and then left the house to enjoy a snowy hike up to

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-63520175713806326002012-01-15T00:52:00.000-08:002012-01-15T00:52:53.988-08:00

The first hike of 2012 wasn't all that it was planned to be. That's not to say it wasn't a good hike, because it was a beautiful destination and the trail is pretty unusual too. If you happened to read the itinerary that I posted less than 24 hours ago then you'll know that today's hike was planned to include a lot more than a 1 mile round trip hike. The morning started off on the wrong foot

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-32712325554156409562012-01-14T01:19:00.000-08:002012-01-14T01:19:23.654-08:00

You'll thank me later for sparing you all the pros and cons for all the different destination options that I've been pondering for the last five days. It's after midnight and I still don't have a plan. That's one drawback to hiking solo: there's a million options out there but I'm compelled to committ to something just for the sake of letting others know where I'll be in the unlikely event

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-58312419104370151262012-01-08T23:14:00.000-08:002012-01-08T23:14:12.695-08:00

Last hike of the year. It wasn't planned. The family finally got tired of me hanging around the house, bored; they voted that I had to leave and go for a hike. You know me... always compliant. Grabbed some running gear and some hiking gear and jumped into the car a short while after noon and drove to the upper trail head on Blanchard Hill (aka Chuckanut Mountain). The target was the Incline

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-12162016240034529282012-01-08T17:14:00.000-08:002012-01-08T22:33:10.170-08:00

Here is a link to another blog which describes in detail the ordeal of 13 Hours In Paradise - a story from inside the Visitor Center at Paradise in Mount Rainier National Park where visitors were detained while a SWAT Team manhunt continued outside on 1-1-2012. Thanks, Ingunn, for sharing the link on facebook. No, I do not know the author of the blog. Glad the day turned out as well as it did

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-63262908863610186082012-01-02T22:05:00.000-08:002012-01-03T20:52:05.425-08:00

Breaking news around the northwest is centered around the sudden and tragic shooting of Park Ranger Margaret Anderson  while on duty in Mount Rainier National Park. For their own protection, Park visitors were asked to stay put inside the Paradise Visitor Center while Law Enforcement teams tracked down the shooter. Meanwhile, there was a group of hikers enjoying the solitude of a snow camping

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-33381069718628858302011-12-31T23:37:00.000-08:002011-12-31T23:38:55.141-08:00

Went for a nice 9.4 miles (RT) and 1,200 feet of gain hike on North Mountain just outside of Darrington on the day after Christmas. On the way out there, I stopped in Rockport to look at the Eagles. Problem was that it was so comfy and warm in the car that I froze my buns off outside and the Eagles all seemed to suddenly disappear. I saw them from the road, but couldn't find them with the camera

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-47355426642399333382011-12-26T23:35:00.000-08:002011-12-26T23:35:12.167-08:00

Dec. 17, 2011 Met up with a group of Mount Baker Club members for a pleasant snowshoe along the Glacier Creek Road. Glacier Creek Road is located just east of the town of Glacier along the Mount Baker Highway (Hwy 542) in Washington State. During the summer months, this road is used for access to the Heliotrope Ridge trail which is one of the primary climbing routes for those seeking to

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-34692961880016076702011-12-26T07:59:00.000-08:002011-12-26T07:59:43.106-08:00

Planning on burning a few post-Christmas calories in search of the North Mountain Lookout. Will probably drive the loop (clockwise) from home to Concrete, do a little Eagle watching (photographing) and visit the lower Baker Dam before heading down toward Darrington and North Mountain. Will finish the loop by coming through Arlington and then home. If North Mtn is a bust then there is a chance

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-63519659792173903372011-12-22T18:28:00.000-08:002011-12-23T13:28:29.922-08:00

Here is the tentative hiking calendar for 2012: Jan. 14 Feb. 11 Mar. 17 Apr. 14 May 19 Jun. 9 Jul. 14 Aug. 25 Sep. 29 Oct. 13 Nov. 10 Dec. 15 Pray for sun! As usual, all dates are tentative and subject to change at any time. Please feel free to contact me if you are interested in sharing the trail on any of these dates - or if you'd like to propose additional dates. Before you forget, or

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-50588091462368135182011-12-18T10:23:00.000-08:002011-12-20T11:20:26.046-08:00

On my way back home from visiting the Mt. Baker Hot Springs it was a fine time to visit the Shadow Of The Sentinels trail. This trail is built to be a wheelchair accessible route, complete with interesting and informative signs along the way. While there aren't any views of distant (or nearby) peaks, the forest is lovely and this would make a nice short trip for the kids. This

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-78733418696319823962011-12-16T23:52:00.000-08:002011-12-16T23:52:09.175-08:00

Took the easy way out today. Going to hang out with the Mount Baker Club and go for a nice snowshoe trek. Last I heard, the destination was dependant up how far up the Glacier Creek road we could drive. I suspect we'll head toward Heliotrope Ridge trailhead (or the picnic area beyond or just the trail itself) or maybe we'll divert and up toward Coal Creek Pass. These are all connected to the

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-24756525255581356852011-12-15T23:31:00.000-08:002011-12-15T23:40:08.988-08:00

Nestled in the foothills between Baker Lake and Mount Baker there exists a certain paradise. The Mount Baker Hot Springs has been around for ages. It's well known by locals, but not often discussed. It's a northwest soaking paradise - provided you're with good company. As you can imagine, hot springs naturally attract a diverse population. Stories circulate as they do - ripe with

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-89653334670069980102011-12-09T00:04:00.000-08:002011-12-09T00:16:21.034-08:00

Hoypus Hill is located on the east side of highway 20, across from the main portion of Deception Pass State Park. ***Warning: This is a really long report, but so worth it!*** In general, Hoypus Hill is a nice area. It's certainly suitable for an easy day hike, but really, in my opinion, it's much more suitable for a nice trail run. It is mostly flat with relatively obstacle free trails and a

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-3118579287526226692011-12-07T00:14:00.000-08:002011-12-07T00:14:18.590-08:00

Ok, forget North Mountain - it's saved for a future date. New destination:  Mt. Baker Hot Springs (Rd 1130 off the Baker Lake Rd).  Worst case scenario is less than a 10 mile road walk on snow.  Best case scenario is awesome weather and a fun time. No, I have no intention of 'soaking'. While in the neighborhood, I'll consider visiting nearby Rainbow Falls near the hot springs and then the

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-7352899829025399642011-12-06T23:26:00.000-08:002011-12-06T23:26:04.006-08:00

Another unplanned impromptu outing. Torn between wanting to go to a new destination (but solo once again) vs. going somewhere local (given the short daylight hours) vs. going snowshoeing with the Mt. Baker Club (but starting late and bailing early). Debated heading to Bowman Bay near Deception Pass but it seems to be the one single spot in the entire State where it is scheduled to possibly rain

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-48983538285374120652011-12-04T00:49:00.000-08:002011-12-04T00:54:12.050-08:00

There is no better way to burn off the thousands of Thanksgiving calories than to head out on a short hike with the In-Laws! Badger Mountain is an obvious local high point for the people living in the tri-cities of southeastern Washington. The tree-less summit is located about 1,562 feet above sea level and accessible via a nice network of trails. For those of you from Pugetopolis, this

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-54541315729232235722011-11-29T22:40:00.000-08:002011-11-29T22:49:44.431-08:00

This was the second of two 'hikes' for the day. After a foiled attempt to drive to the Samish Overlook, I found myself visiting Clayton Beach for a short while (Trip #161) before driving north on Chuckanut to the North Chuckanut Mtn Trail Head parking lot for Trip #162. On this occasion, the parking lot was completely empty, except for a Border Patrol SUV; its engine running and an officer in

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-14023019671521524502011-11-28T23:22:00.000-08:002011-11-28T23:22:23.132-08:00

Another day off of work... oh the joys of 'maximum PTO carryover', 'floating holidays' and 'unpaid furloughs'. Combine that with the fact that I've already exceeded the monthly gas budget and you end up with another day of solo dumpster dive hiking. In this case, dumpster dive hiking doesn't mean that a trail is lame or a waste of time, it just means that it's so close to home that it generally

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-52674764295097319172011-11-25T12:24:00.001-08:002011-11-25T12:24:57.026-08:00

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-85669337600558684462011-11-23T09:44:00.000-08:002011-11-23T09:44:02.055-08:00

After living in the Chuckanut area for 23 years, I finally made a visit to Clayton Beach. Clayton Beach is a popular destination for locals. It offers access to the waters of Puget Sound, a rope swing, nice scenery (in good weather) and some train tracks. The weather was less than idea for a visit to Clayton Beach. Stormy weather wasn't a surprise because it's been forecasted on the news for

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-65737548665964827282011-11-20T23:19:00.000-08:002011-11-23T08:35:12.758-08:00

Itinerary for 11-21-2011 Another solo week-day of hiking. Well, maybe a half day of hiking after Alexia gets dropped off at school at 9am. That's a pretty late start when the sun sets so early. Weather is sketchy: cold, rain, sun, snow at higher elevations, and wind advisories. Where to go? Dunno. Too many unmotivating choices to choose from. Snowshoeing in fresh snow from the lower

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-46186058279993691122011-11-20T00:52:00.000-08:002011-11-20T17:15:53.359-08:00

Just as the first real round of winter snow began a constant and threatening descent onto the Cascade Mountains, my feet took me to the Iron Goat Trail for a little exploring along the old rail routes from the early 1900's. The snow wasn't too deep yet - only about four inches in the deepest locations. However, this is just temporary as this Iron Goat Rail Route crosses numerous avalanche paths

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-53691897538593259162011-11-12T23:14:00.000-08:002011-11-12T23:17:36.977-08:00

Yep, looks like this may be one of the wettest hiking days in years. Possibly the wettest since Rob & I visited the Iron Horse trail in 2005 - it was so wet back then that my pants actually were producing bubbles from residual laundry detergent. Since it appears that I'll be solo for the day, the itinerary is pretty much wide open and subject to change. At this point in time, I'm considering

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-32003432031990528292011-11-11T12:25:00.000-08:002011-11-11T13:05:26.324-08:00

Looking a bit wet. Get to break in the new trail car this Sunday... little nervous about that. Wonder if I can rent the Camry for the day from the new owner? :) If you've got a good set of rain gear and you are interested in a potentially wet day of hiking on sunday, please let me know. I'm in need of a good destination, some entertainment and maybe somebody who wants to drive. There, I

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-67711918802071766792011-11-05T22:36:00.000-07:002011-11-05T22:36:49.618-07:00

Next hike date is Sunday, November 13th. Usual issues with questionable weather and currently no known hiking buddies for the day. Snow is already on the scene... in fact, you can see it in the foothills. Feeling a little bummed about how few 'new destinations' were crossed off my list this year - seems like they were mostly of the dumpster dive variety. Destination for Sunday is still tbd.

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-49383318636492511832011-10-25T23:16:00.000-07:002011-10-30T16:25:17.134-07:00

Lucky planning resulted in a second consecutive day of blue sky hiking in the Cascade Mountains! Tuesday morning dawned with crystal clear skies, so as soon as the family was off to work and school I made my way south to Mount Pilchuck State Park for the 5.25 miles and 2,100 feet of elevation gain trail to the fire lookout cabin atop the mountain. Despite the clear skies and the delay in the

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-70733842029659519912011-10-22T00:08:00.000-07:002011-10-22T00:08:13.612-07:00

Here is a short video showing the panorama's from Artist Point and from the top of Table Mountain. The first panorama is from Artist Point. You can see the thin layer of snow (ice) remaining in the parking lot, and also see the snow piled up around the bathroom building. This panorama is made up of a 'continuous' series of photos taken while turning in a slow circle. The second panorama is

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-1760908152632384562011-10-20T01:21:00.000-07:002011-10-22T00:10:50.136-07:00

Monday, Oct. 17, 2011 With a morning of blue sky before me I found myself battling road construction in Sedro-Woolley and then non-stop 'Speed Limit Minus 10' drivers all they way up Hwy 9 through Acme and on to the Mount Baker Highway. Stopped to say hello to Jen at Crossroads Grocery in Maple Falls before cruising up to Heather Meadows at the Mt. Baker Ski area. The road to Artist Point

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-65303157873074152512011-10-17T22:00:00.000-07:002011-10-17T22:29:19.117-07:00

Once again... it's 9:30pm on the eve of a hike and the destination is TBD. Wrestling with either a re-visit to Mt. Baker's Railroad Grade / Park Butte Lookout or heading south to Mt. Pilchuck. I've been to RR Grade/Park Butte a number of time in fantastic weather - and it's a fantastic place... with some areas still unexplored that need to be checked out sometime. I've also been to Pilchuck

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-61836278690279505232011-10-16T22:36:00.000-07:002011-10-16T22:36:59.114-07:00

Tentatively (depending on how the morning goes) heading to Heather Meadows to (finally) do the Chain Lakes Loop. Weather looks nice, but the need to be back in town by 4:00 has me a little off kilter... I'm used to a later curfew ya know. Depending on how fast or slow this loop goes (or the amount of bears) there may be time for a diversion up to the top of Table Mountain. With the 'limited

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-35153258775398641442011-10-12T21:55:00.001-07:002011-10-12T21:55:59.164-07:00

Looking forward to a relaxing week next week. Praying for some dry weather, fall colors and maybe just a touch of snow here and there. If you're looking for a daytime day hike buddy next week, hit me up. ~E

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-23750188542085943992011-10-02T22:13:00.000-07:002011-10-02T22:53:19.234-07:00

Instead of the traditional western Washington hike that I've become accustomed to, this hike was a bit different: it was 'east of the Cascade crest'... my first hike on the east side of the Cascade Mountains. The original plan was pretty generic since there were a lot of variables coming into play: sketchy weather, sketchy knees and lots of driving to an area that I had never been to before.

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-20294940173576541982011-09-30T21:30:00.000-07:002011-09-30T21:30:46.411-07:00

The Plan for the day is basically wide open. In general, Rob & I are heading out to the little hamlet of "Ronald", which is near Roslyn (of "Northern Exposure" fame) to check out progress on the construction of his family Cabin. While in the area we are considering a couple options. The main three options at this point are as follows: 1) Visit Cooper Lake, maybe hike along the Cooper River

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-86433219307298976792011-09-24T21:06:00.000-07:002011-09-25T15:58:00.461-07:00

Friendly reminder that my next hike is currently scheduled for Saturday October 1, 2011! Fall has 'officially' arrived, so with a little luck maybe we'll be able to capture some fresh fall colors (although they seem to be running a bit late this year). The desired destination is 'beyond' Cascade Pass, if the weather cooperates. As always, that destination could change based on a variety of who

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-26526915329866137792011-09-13T00:18:00.000-07:002011-09-25T10:51:12.135-07:00

Some of the most stunning hikes in the North Cascades are only available for a limited time each year. The Cascade River road provides access to a number of these 'short season' Premier hikes. The winter of 2010/2011 provided lots of snow and even more cooler temperatures - much later into spring than what we've seen for quite a while. Basically, the favorite & best hikes were still snow bound

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-75150343878078501572011-09-07T00:48:00.000-07:002011-09-07T00:51:45.740-07:00

Little Cranberry Lake is one of four main areas in the Anacortes Community Forest Lands (ACFL). In the last year I've made a first visit to two other ACFL areas: Heart Lake and Whistle Lake/Sugarloaf Mountain. The third area, Mount Erie, contains some trails and climbing areas, but also includes a road directly to the summit... so it's pretty low on the Hikes To Do list. Little Cranberry

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-15603646249553566122011-09-05T00:40:00.000-07:002011-09-05T00:40:00.564-07:00

Heading out for a day hike with Steve Gilles. Connecting with Andrea, Beau France, Jessica & Josh in the morning as well to decide the final game plan. Anticipating that Steve & I will head toward Hidden Lake Lookout (Hwy 20 >> Marblemount >> Cascade River Road), but other considerations are Cascade Pass / Sahale Arm (further down the Cascade River Road). Weather looks fantastic... can't wait

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-91983731013844725732011-08-27T20:07:00.000-07:002011-08-27T20:08:24.503-07:00

Peltoms just posted his 2011 glacier findings over on nwhikers.net. We know there was a lot of snow (and a lot of lingering snow) over the 2010/2011 winter, and Peltoms confirmed the accumulation of snowpack... and confirmed it's the second largest accumulation over the 28 years that he's been surveying these glaciers. The most accumulation was from the world famous winter of 1999, when Mt.

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-79132607707395881442011-08-20T01:27:00.000-07:002011-08-27T09:41:46.242-07:00

Met up with Steve Gilles at the Monroe Park and Ride on an overcast - marine layer type of day. The weather forecast was predicting sunny, warm and blue skies... and we found just that as we passed the town of Skykomish heading eastbound on Hwy 2 toward the Foss River Road. We lucked out as it seems the rest of the northwest wouldn't see blue sky until about 8pm. Our destination was the

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-76190189885029505552011-08-12T23:49:00.000-07:002011-08-13T00:06:24.634-07:00

Meeting up with Steve G. of Edmonds at 8am for a hike out on Tonga Ridge, with the potential for a summit of nearby Mt. Sawyer. Tonga Ridge is located south-eastish of Skykomish off Hwy 2. Expecting an easy and casual day of sunny hiking, and then be back in town by 6:00 for the 4-H awards at the Skagit County Fair with the family. Happy Trails! ~E

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-46624796688353223692011-08-09T22:59:00.000-07:002011-08-09T22:59:16.585-07:00

Upon our completion of the Dry Falls hike, Rachel & Hilary returned to the cabin for showers while Steve & I opted to make a quick trek out to Kawishiwi Falls. Kawishiwi Falls is located between Garden Lake and Fall Lake, just outside of Ely, MN, near the famous Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA). Garden Lake has a dam created at its outlet for purposes of generating electricity. The falls

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-9439719450983583612011-08-04T23:22:00.000-07:002011-08-05T00:02:07.638-07:00

With a little free time on my calendar, I had an opportunity to meet up with some of my favorite buddies for a hike near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) in northern Minnesota, ya. Based on a recommendation from Mary Ann, Rachel, Steve and I found ourselves setting out for a +3 mile hike on the Bass Lake Trail, just north of Ely, MN. This hike is located in the Superior National Forest

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-78539193572896180852011-07-25T22:01:00.000-07:002011-08-09T23:10:08.064-07:00

Lily and Lizard Lakes up in the Chuckanut area is a very popular hike for Whatcom and Skagit County folks year round. It's low elevation makes it easily accessible and typically snow-free. Due to the unfavorable weather forecast for July 16, 2011, this became my destination for the day. The day was drippy, with bouts of fog and no views. There are a number of routes that lead you up to

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-4693280862559082352011-07-23T00:03:00.000-07:002011-07-23T00:05:27.372-07:00

While on the way home from my first visit to the Goat Mountain trail off the Mount Baker Highway, I followed advice from Aaron to go visit the Diversion Dam on the Middle Fork of the Nooksack River. This was my first visit to the Middle Fork Nooksack River Road. It's in great condition fr the first few miles - which is all I needed to drive before I located the spur road to the diversion dam.

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-40810553096120834172011-07-16T22:28:00.000-07:002011-07-16T22:34:16.442-07:00

After driving by the Goat Mountain trail head a couple weeks ago with Jen & Janet it's been on my mind. J & J mentioned the great views from the higher elevations, but weather and views weren't likely during the Summer Solstice outing (due to weather). So, with a pretty decent weather window and a schedule opening one Sunday morning I found myself at the Goat Mtn Trail Head. This particular

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-57722856158019253702011-07-16T09:57:00.000-07:002011-07-16T09:57:17.587-07:00

It's a pre-scheduled hike day but the weather looks pretty wet everywhere west of the Cascade Crest. May as well save the gas money and just hit somewhere close to home, without views... such as Lily & Lizard Lake in the Chuckanuts. While exploring that area I'll probably try to use my enhanded GPS skills to find the high point of the area (just southwestish of Lily Lake... or Lizard Lake).

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-19405684818884481702011-07-12T21:39:00.000-07:002011-07-12T21:51:04.457-07:00

Yet another trip to Heather Meadows / Artist Point? Yep! The sun was out (as was the sunscreen) and it was a great day for a summer snow trip... with views! Shorts, T-shirt & a hat. It's about time! No snow shoes were needed since the snow is very consolidated. It also gets slushy as it warms, so traction isn't always a sure thing. That's ok... because it makes for great glissading

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-71932580630436651522011-07-10T08:30:00.000-07:002011-07-10T08:30:38.622-07:00

Decided to go visit Goat Mountain (off the Mt. Baker Highway from the Hannegan Pass Road). Might also venture out the Hannegen Pass Rd a little bit to see if there is a bootpath to the Silver Tip Mine or nearby prospects. As time and road conditions allow, may also swing by the Nooksack Middle Fork Road (off Mosquito Lk Rd) to view the Diversion Dam and seek out a waterfall too. All in all,

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-22112366648655267592011-07-09T22:53:00.000-07:002011-07-09T22:54:14.260-07:00

Well, solo and undecided on a destination. Have a few possible destinations in mind, all have upsides and downsides. Not sure where I'll end up. Goat Mtn (Trailhead off Hannegan Pass road from the Mt. Baker Hwy #542): New to me, good elevation gain. No snow down low, snow up high. Park Butte Lookout/Railroad Grade (south side of Mt Baker): Familiar area, road is long and washboarded... and

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-61441263464195805632011-07-06T00:32:00.000-07:002011-07-06T23:45:55.704-07:00

Father's Day got rolling a little late this year since I was on my way home from the Summer Solstice shindig in Maple Falls... so I didn't get the usual opportunity to wake up and ponder if anyone is going to bring me breakfast in bed. The family was already awake when I got home. They were wondering what exciting adventures they might be subjected to on this special, but drizzly, holiday. It

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-80299040856978598722011-07-01T23:52:00.000-07:002011-07-02T00:00:39.353-07:00

It seems I've suddenly been relieved of my on-call dog duties (doodies, haha, that is dog humor) at the AKC show that was on my Saturday calendar. Weather looks really promising and I have an empty day while the rest of the family is busy. What would you do? Nap? Right. I don't think so. No time to dig up a partner so I'm just planning on going solo. Really I didn't try very hard to find a

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-56379148056749780312011-06-30T08:40:00.000-07:002011-06-30T20:24:06.164-07:00

After the short road hike to Hannegan Pass Trail head, a select group of Solstice enthusiasts (aka nwhikers) made a quick trek out to Heather Meadows. There is still plenty of snow up there, and no indication that anyone plans to do any snowplowing anytime soon. In fact, rumors are circulating that the road to Artist Point may not have a chance to open this summer. EDITED TO ADD: Hey, just

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-2030104987681417132011-06-25T00:32:00.000-07:002011-06-25T00:36:27.216-07:00

Location: Hannegan Road, located off the Mt. Baker Highway #542 where it crosses the Nooksack river for the final time before it ascends toward Heather Meadows Hikers: Jen, Janet & Moi Date: Saturday, June 18, 2011 Weather: Much wetter than the meteorologists led us to believe I meet up with Jen & Janet out in Maple Falls. Our original plan was to hike the Goat Mountain trail (in the

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-41839295782430085912011-06-22T21:54:00.001-07:002011-06-22T21:54:07.359-07:00

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-68336979496633323822011-06-21T10:13:00.001-07:002011-06-21T10:13:36.465-07:00

Thinkng about a summer solstice sunset hike tonight. You?

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-36186470952579134502011-06-16T22:24:00.000-07:002011-06-18T07:04:01.711-07:00

Joining up with a few of my favorite hiking buddies for a visit to Goat Mountain on the Mt. Baker Highway and the 2011 Summer Solstice get-together. As is the norm for this time of year, we aren't expecting a summit... just a casual hike with fun folks, enjoying the long days and getting familiar with the scenery (and avoiding bears). Meeting/Departing from Jen's place in Maple Falls at 9am on

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-83503899369527742692011-06-15T19:10:00.001-07:002011-06-16T22:18:33.548-07:00

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-16402146161244831042011-06-11T22:41:00.001-07:002011-06-11T22:41:09.193-07:00

This message has been sent using the picture and Video service from Verizon Wireless!To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture.Note: To play video messages sent to email, Quicktime@ 6.5 or higher is required.

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-29302500224425004882011-05-19T20:33:00.000-07:002011-05-21T23:27:07.249-07:00

Baker Lake, located south of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan offers a pleasant trail along its east side - perfect for a one or two night backpack shuttle hike. Last Saturday, with almost blue skies, the Maple Grove campground along the Baker Lake trail was selected as our destination of choice due to its lack of snow, likelihood of solitude and limited elevation gain. Not holding our breath for

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-64789070958340505472011-05-13T22:27:00.000-07:002011-05-13T22:27:42.140-07:00

We will be starting the day off with a hike along the luscious shores of Baker lake and maybe a few local points of interest such as the Shadow of the Sentinels trail and local campground options. You can read about my original visiti to Baker Lake on nwhikers... trip #13, from more than five years ago! Hiking with Rachel, Steve and Rudy. Happy Trails! ~E

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-76900764927541482612011-05-09T00:23:00.000-07:002011-05-09T01:01:48.036-07:00

People freqently mention the Anacortes Community Forest Land (ACFL) trails when locals talk about hiking. It's a favorite of hikers, bikers and walkers - for all seasons and in all weather conditions. My first visit to the ACFL's finally came about a couple months ago when I ventured out for a long trail run on the Heart Lake trails. Heart lake is one of three main ACFL areas. My second visit

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-20734399087130451952011-05-02T00:00:00.000-07:002011-05-09T21:35:33.900-07:00

Darrington, WA 4-20-2011 After a couple days of lowland hikes involving snow, it was time to find a lowland hike that WOULDN'T involve snow. Uninspired as to a destination, memories of a recent trip report from Gil surfaced in my mind. A river, a logging town, the promise of washed out roads, easy access mines and in-your-face mountain views became the perfect ingredients for s sunny Wednesday

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-2137207024277431642011-04-25T22:55:00.000-07:002011-05-02T00:16:38.123-07:00

366 days ago a friend and I tried to hike to Split Rock but were turned around due to the deep snow (in sneakers) and limited time. We didn't see Split Rock but we did enjoy the peculiarity of Bald Mountain.*** Fast Forward to today... I managed to round up a different buddy for another attempt. This buddy was the guy who first told me about Split Rock: Ron Peterson with the Mount Baker

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-68830638449724856422011-04-24T00:07:00.000-07:002011-04-24T00:07:16.565-07:00

After my warm up hike (with snow) on nearby Devils Mountain, it seemed like a fine opportunity to do a little exploring on the west side of that same ridge. According to my Topo Map, there is a lake near Devils Mountain called Ten Lake. Near Ten Lake is a high point labeled as "Scott Mountain". On the western side of Scott Mountain, Topo shows a road that ends at a "Mine". "Mine" was my

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-55433004719537521592011-04-21T22:01:00.000-07:002011-04-21T22:11:27.121-07:00

Devil Mountain is located just east of I-5 between the Conway and Mount Vernon exits in Skagit County, WA. That stretch of I-5 has flat farming fields on the west side, but the east side is a long ridge of peaks and valleys, often with dramatic clouds hanging around nearby. For me, that means it's close to home and a scenic landmark I see frequently, but have never explored. The entire

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-27162040445316530122011-04-20T23:52:00.000-07:002011-04-21T00:00:27.167-07:00

Taking Thursday off from hiking but might make a morning visit to Lizard and Lily Lakes in the Chuckanuts on Friday (if I'm not car shopping and the weather is favorable). Over the last three days of hiking I've discovered that my rain jacket no longer repels water and one of my boots is no longer waterproof... H20 seems to be seeping into the toebox. DOH! Mother Nature owes me some DRY hiking

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-28221735240578840572011-04-20T09:34:00.000-07:002011-04-20T09:34:40.318-07:00

Decided I'd had enough snow over the last two days so I'm skipping the scheduled Mt. Baker trip. Instead, I'll go focus on some mine hunting along the North Fork of the Sauk River, just east of Darrington. Not sure about cell service, but am sure that I'll find at least three mines, maybe a couple bonus mines if I'm feeling adventuresome. Depending on how long it takes, I'll probably take the

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-74439397779471506432011-04-18T21:50:00.000-07:002011-04-18T21:50:11.759-07:00

Yep, survived a day of rain, snow and sun on Devil Mountain as well as a bushwack trying to find the Scott Mountain Mine. More on all that later... let's talk about the Tuesday plan. Meeting Ron Peterson of the Mount Baker Club for a bike/hike to Split Rock, located between Big Lake and Lake Cavanaugh. It's a long one - about 13 miles round trip. Erik H & I made an attempt exactly a year ago

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-68148508339833181442011-04-18T00:29:00.000-07:002011-04-18T00:32:05.853-07:00

Mostly due to a lack of planning time, on Monday I'm planning on exploring Devil Mountain, with a little dose of tulips touring and maybe a venture into the Lily Lake area of Chuckanut mountain. Devil Mountain is located just south of Little Mountain. Basically, its the long ridge of points you can see to the east of I-5 between Mount Vernon and Conway exits. Access to the logging roads is

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-81476834461060046252011-04-15T00:19:00.000-07:002011-04-15T00:33:46.644-07:00

Last week I was able to meet up with the Mount Baker Club for a nice day of snowshoeing up at Mt. Baker. Sure... ANOTHER snowshoe at Mt. Baker (yawn!). Well, this is a brand new route that the club has been working on establishing as a new snowshoe route to aid in keeping the snowshoers from stomping on the groomed cross country ski tracks. Since the Avalanche Danger Rose has been higher than

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-4949047626019866372011-04-10T19:34:00.000-07:002011-04-10T19:34:30.477-07:00

I've been a little lackadaisical about generating the trip thumbnails for my last three trails. Part of the issues is the lack of notable photos generated on those trips, but the bigger issues to blame are just that I've been so busy... plus our home computer has become painfully troublesome. So, with no further adieu, here are the newest three thumbnails. Oyster Dome Trip Report Alger Alp

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-82299359630007960142011-04-08T00:37:00.000-07:002011-04-08T00:43:07.648-07:00

Immediately after finishing a trek to Oyster Dome and trying to find the true summit of Blanchard/Chuckanut Mountain, Redwic and I set out to summit the World Famous*** Alger Alp. We parked near Silver Creek and began hiking up the gated road just west of the creek. The approach is up a gated logging road, just east of a driveway and west of the creek. It seems this property is owned by

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-40887662281715562192011-04-06T23:37:00.000-07:002011-04-06T23:37:59.948-07:00

Heading out on a snowshoe outing with the Mount Baker Club from the White Salmon Lodge on the Mt. Baker Highway (Hwy 542). This is a new route/area for me, but Herm B. has promised it's a safe place to play in these avalanche conditions. We're meeting and carpooling from Maple Falls Fuel Stop at 9:00am. Happy Trails! ~E

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-37497766803967279342011-03-26T16:18:00.000-07:002011-04-08T00:41:16.356-07:00

After a lengthy few days of discussing the details for a 16 mile trek into the unknown, Redwic & I ditched that plan altogether and decided to make a visit to the Chuckanuts. However, before heading out toward the Chuckanuts, we did a little trail head scouting for the 16-miler for future reference. The reason I mention this is that as we cruised along the Skagit River, Redwic spotted a huge

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-43491220383947322042011-03-22T23:22:00.000-07:002011-03-22T23:22:57.402-07:00

Last Friday, the UPS guy dropped of my new Go Lite Black Mountain Jacket. Just in time for me to take it with me on a hike to Oyster Dome and Alger Alp in the Chuckanut Mountains of western Washington. Official Description: With the GoLite Black Mountain Thermal Wind Jacket for Men, you don't have to choose between wind protection, warmth and superior ventilation, you can have them all. Built

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-11387948346013723892011-03-19T16:00:00.001-07:002011-03-19T16:00:45.116-07:00

Done hiking, going for coffee then dinner.

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-70617027165702429402011-03-19T06:54:00.001-07:002011-03-19T06:54:35.393-07:00

Changed plans, now doing Chuckanut Summit

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-81574842773040203882011-03-18T22:30:00.000-07:002011-03-18T22:36:24.120-07:00

Currently planning to go exploring  with Redwic from nwhikers.net  on a quest to locate and dominate Silo Mountain. Silo Mountain is situated east of Cultus Mountain (behind it as viewed from College Way in Mt. Vernon looking eastward).  See map. Access is via a DNR logging road heading south from the South Skagit "Highway" at Prarie Creek Road (just east of Day Creek Road). Although it's a

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-25416560196375906582011-03-15T00:49:00.000-07:002011-03-16T22:05:46.325-07:00

While trying to plan the upcoming hike day I decided to start researching the specifics of where/when I might be able to see the moon from a specific latitude/longitude point. We found out the hard way that it's not as easy as a google web search. The moon was supposed to be there... but we never found it.  You can read about that adventure in the Skyline Ridge report from Feb. 19, 2011. How

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-76876754563184709342011-03-09T00:29:00.000-08:002011-03-09T00:29:28.193-08:00

Here is a favorable shout-out to GoLite (who just happens to also be in the midst of a clearance of winter gear). They went above and beyond the call of duty for a friend of mine to make right on a problem caused by website technical difficulties. Give them a browse if you're looking for a deal on winter gear or looking for some new digs for spring. ====== In other news... next hike is coming

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-4785606184390427352011-03-02T23:57:00.000-08:002011-03-04T22:25:24.578-08:00

Feb 19, 2011 After a fun and photo-filled hike to Wallace Falls, Rob and I headed up to Steven's Pass to undertake a nighttime snowshoe up Skyline Ridge. Skyline Ridge is located at Steven's Pass on Hwy 2, across the highway from the Steven's Pass ski area. There are pros and cons to night-time adventures along Skyline Ridge. The downside to any kind of night-time adventure on Skyline Ridge

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-53600328560955343932011-02-27T13:36:00.000-08:002011-03-03T00:05:00.304-08:00

Wallace Falls State Park is located off Hwy 2 in the little hamlet of Gold Bar, WA. This was my second visit to Wallace Falls. The first visit was back in January 2007 (trip report available here on nwhikers) and was done in a bit of a rush to avoid risking my car being locked in the parking lot for the night. Rob and I arrived in the parking lot at just after the leisurely time of 11:00am.

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-42587336732942718542011-02-18T21:08:00.000-08:002011-02-27T13:42:19.026-08:00

Generic plan, currently: Meeting Rob at the Monroe Park & Ride on Hwy 2 at 10:30am-ish. We'll make our way east with possible stops for a little hiking and photographing at Wallace Falls and Deception Creek. Might also do a little exploring in the town of Index or walk up the destroyed Index-Galena road (all with hopes of finding something photo-worthy). Eventually, we'll end up at Steven's

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-2238476265151346612011-02-15T20:30:00.000-08:002011-02-15T20:30:24.047-08:00

It's not very often that the weather forecast turns from poor weather to great weather just for one of my planned excursions. With the windy, stormy and blustery weather that's been hanging around here, it took me by surprise when I pulled up the forecast for this coming Saturday. Now, we all know from past experience that the weather forecast on the computer doesn't always match the weather

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-3885336123171576722011-02-10T23:35:00.000-08:002011-02-10T23:49:32.457-08:00

An unusual sequence of events transpired which led to my discovery that my planned March outing coincides with a full moon. So, I'm seriously considering making a night-time snowshoe outing part of the itinerary for that day. This is something I've been wanting to do for a few years but just never got around to really planning it. The most likely destination would be Heather Meadows/Artist

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-51596913937415999602011-02-03T22:39:00.000-08:002011-02-03T22:47:36.567-08:00

The views from Artist Point are legendary. Unforgettable. Absolutely unbelievable. You just won't believe how incredibly jaw dropping they are! With scenery like this, it's a prime snowshoe destination. Unfortunately, you're never guaranteed that Mother Nature will cooperate with your grand plans to WOW your snowshoe partners. That was the case when I met up with Andrea, Beau and Kevin last

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-51451755597990420842011-01-28T20:55:00.000-08:002011-01-28T20:58:29.982-08:00

Planning on a day of snowshoeing with some back-country cohorts (Kevin, Andrea & Beau) at Mount Baker's Heather Meadows while the(ir) kids ski the slopes. Hopefully the weather cooperates and provides us a few scenic views as we ascend to Artist Point / Huntoon Point before the six inches of fresh snow drops on us. Might scout around to try and find the much-whispered-about-but-seldomly-shared

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-32673228554708598942011-01-27T00:23:00.000-08:002011-01-27T00:25:16.941-08:00

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 (of 3) Stepping away from the main bunker at Fort Ebey provides a nice outlook over the Paraglider Landing area and the Radio-Controlled Airplane area. Nearby is an informative kiosk showing the intended take-off and landing areas. The bluff trail continues onward to the south, with a great view toward Ebey's Landing. "Ebey's landing" is actually around the corner a

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-71627058855197661572011-01-22T00:06:00.000-08:002011-01-22T00:28:23.027-08:00

After 12 weeks of training I'm proud to announce that I've completed my first half marathon. The Nookachamps 2011 Half Marathon was held on January 15, 2011. Thanks, Erik H., for providing me with the incentive to actually accept this goal. I never would have considered it if you weren't there to suffer enjoy it with me. In addition, my friends at DailyMile also played a key role in helping

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-40183802389857036642011-01-17T01:02:00.000-08:002011-01-27T00:37:15.259-08:00

This is Part 2. Click here for Part 1 of the Fort Ebey trip report. Don't skip ahead to Part 3 yet. Welcome to Fort Ebey Battery 248. So, did you bring your flashlight? You might want to have one handy. See? The light helps you to see your way around - but it doesn't do a lot to increase your comfort zone. Not quite 'home sweet home' is it? In the above room there was a bat

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-59787817578151549582011-01-14T23:44:00.000-08:002011-01-27T00:38:41.928-08:00

After a short 8 mile trail run at Heart Lake in the ACFL, the sun beckoned me further south on Whidbey Island. Between Oak Harbor and Coupeville is a sign for Fort Ebey... a destination on my "Need To Visit" list. My excitement about finally having an opportunity to explore this park at leisure kept me from paying attention to the route. That caused a minor bit of trouble when it came time

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-66142413634267838992011-01-09T18:38:00.000-08:002011-01-09T18:38:18.149-08:00

Dumb TV Weather forecasts... all the hype about rain and snow coming kept me out of the mountains for the day. Woke up to blue skies in Mt. Vernon and could see cloudless blue all the way to the western horizon. Decided to make a first visit to the Anacortes Community Forest Land (ACFL) area because 1) no one ever says a disparaging word about it and 2) I haven't been there before. That turned

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-49112136991347212352011-01-08T15:25:00.001-08:002011-01-08T15:25:50.083-08:00

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-91148242017398494492011-01-08T00:10:00.000-08:002011-01-08T00:10:51.218-08:00

Another destination dilemma. It's hike day. Forecasted rain below 500 feet. Forecasted snow above 500 feet. Solo. It's also 'long run day'. Prescription = 8 miles. Option #1: Head east on Hwy 20 for a possible adventure into a world of snow (or possibly just rain) in the Newhalem neighborhood provided I endure a long tedious uphill forested slog and lots of driving. Then back home for a

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-42080923280581285642011-01-01T21:23:00.000-08:002011-01-01T21:33:50.415-08:00

12/31/2010 Friday Met up with Kris and Kevin in Mount Vernon on Friday morning to attempt a snowshoe trek from the Mountain Loop Highway up to Heather Lake at the base of Mount Pilchuck. The weather proved to be perfectly glorious. Blue skies. No wind. Cold temps... kept the fresh snow on the trees instead of forcing us to dodge snow bombs all day. The trail to Heather Lake is a popular

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6365722744816307169.post-6305545128378464892011-01-01T08:53:00.000-08:002011-12-29T18:30:33.468-08:00

2011 Hiking Calendar Here is the unofficial scheduled outing dates for 2011 (and links to trip reports for dates already completed). As always, planned dates and/or destinations are subject to change at any point in time, with or without notice. January 8: Heart Lake near Anacortes and Fort Ebey on Whidbey Island January 29: Artist Point on Mount Baker February 19: Wallace Falls State Park near

edrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08757584507632428629noreply@blogger.com0