mixed climb turned snowshoe with a great crew
Gorgeous ocean/alpine vistas, with unexpected sun and dry powder snow on this strenuous two summit trip of ~6000’ gain over 14 miles.
;Lots of crevasses between camp and bottom of route
Energetic group ran out of daylight to get the summit, but still got a great workout.
Trail in good condition, bridges have upgrades. Good December hike.
The hike was a large loop that included Discovery Park bluff , W. Perkins , The Bluff , East Magnolia , and the Water Tank view points , although there were no views . This was a group of hikers that enjoyed the social and fun of Saturday morning urban hiking.
Successful Summit of Middle Chiwaukum via Lake Ethel Trail approach.
7 of us, 2 leads, and 5 new basic snowshoe instructors ventured up the Grace Lakes route from the upper parking lot, only partway to the Grace Lakes Basin.
A hike through a local forest with well maintained trails.
Great trip but turned around a bit early for a number of reasons.
A fabulous day with a few inches of fresh snow and clear blue skies and good people.
Pleasant sunny cold day, several inches of new dry snow. Found a good route from the Saddle East of August down to Tolmie Creek. Lots of Devils club and other prickly vegetation, manageable due to the time of year.
Gorgeous views in all directions, with absence of snow turning this winter scramble into a very strenuous hike (~5000’ gain).
