Day Hike - Coldwater Lake

Mt St. Helens Volcanic monument hike around Coldwater lake. We will hike along the lakeshore, then return via the Coldwater ridge trail. Last mile will be hiking on the  road to get back to the Coldwater lake trail.

My goals for this trip are as follows:  

1.  Be safe.

2.  Complete the loop around the lake.

3. Learn something.

My expectations for trip participants are:

1.  Practice Leave No Trace principles

2.  Be respectful of  all participants. 

3.  Have the physical conditioning necessary for this trip. The trail along the lake has some small ups and downs but is mostly flat.  The trail along the ridge to the east side has switchbacks going up and then a long gradual descent on the other end.  Pace will be in the 2.0 mph range, probably a bit faster on the easier parts.  

4.  Have the necessary gear to be safe and comfortable.  This hike is at a modest elevation but can have a lot of  weather exposure.  

0600 at the Martin Way Park & Ride in Olympia