Thunder Creek

May 17-18, 2014

Overnight Mountaineers B3 backpack along Thunder Creek from Diablo Lake to Macallister Camp and back.

Although we left Seattle in steady light rain and expected heavier rain in the north, we encountered no precipitation during our trip, and no snow along the trail.

We obtained our camping permit and information about trail conditions from the very helpful ranger at the Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount. She encouraged us
to stop by on our way out to report our natural history and trail conditions observations in a logbook maintained for that purpose, and we did so.

Spring wildflowers were abundant along the trail, with many species in bloom or soon to bloom, including calypso orchids. Most creek crossings could be navigated by stepping stones. We brought Tevas and water shoes for the final significant creek

crossing just before Macallister Camp, which needed to be waded. We did not encounter bothersome insects.

As we travelled along the trail, we practiced using our maps and compasses to track our progress, identify our location along our route, and identify peaks that occasionally came into view through the cloud cover.

We enjoyed our night at the excellent, clean, spacious group campsite at Macallister Camp. This campsite is secluded from other campsites, and next to MacAllister Creek.

It sports its own secluded privy with lovely view.

After setting up camp, we walked about 1.5 miles up the trail in the direction of Tricouni Camp, then returned to our campsite for the night.

After returning to our trailhead at Colonial Creek Campground, we headed home, stopping first at the Wilderness Information Center to report our observations, and then at Cascadian Farms for ice cream (highly recommended).

If asked, I think all party members would vouch for Thunder Creek as a fine early season trip.