Backpack - Enchanted Valley

We will need to start early enough in the day to get to Pyrites Creek Camp 9.5 miles in.  Meet up and carpooling location TBD once we figure out where everyone is coming from. 

This is my favorite backpack! It follows the lush trail along the East Fork Quinalt River.  The trail is mild as far as not much elevation gain/no technical challenges-probably besides mud and down trees.  We have permits to camp at Pyrites Creek camp for 2 nights.  This camp is at 9.5 miles in.  There are many opportunities to filter water, so light on the water carry.  Day 2/May 5 we will do an out and back hike to Enchanted Valley (8 miles RT) This hike is also known as the 1000 waterfall trail.  If the snowmelt is just right, there can be water cascading down all around the valley.  In any case, Enchanted Valley is an idyllic location to take a long rest, ice your feet in the river, ponder life...Time spent in Enchanted Valley will be based on mutual consensus.  The trail does keep going, so if the weather is fine, those wishing to get a few more miles in can hike beyond the Chalet. In any case we will meet back at the Chalet at the agreed upon time and walk back to camp together. Day 3/May 6 we will pack up and hike out. This is a rainforest, so potential to be wet-but still wonderful.  Pyrites Creek has a bear wire situation, so food storage would be hang or bear canister.

Cost is $16-$8 permit to camp at Pyrites x 2 nights.

Preference to Tacoma Introduction to Backpacking students. Trip will open to all Mountaineers to register on April 30.

Completion of this trip may satisfy one of several iconic backpacking routes listed in the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Backpack badges. Award badges are open to any member to earn.