Hikers no longer can deny that winter conditions and lowering snow levels are here to stay for a while. Sure, many hikers trade summer boots for snowshoes or dutifully grind their way up Mount Si to stay in shape, but even the hard-core may occasionally take a break from thigh-burning workouts or snow sports to explore easier terrain.
By Karen Sykes | December 5, 2002
With the ski season on hold and snowlines still high, Mount Catherine near Snoqualmie Pass is an ideal hike close to home. Days are short, but so is the trail -- only three miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet. The summit is well within the capacity of most hikers.
By Karen Sykes | November 28, 2002
Hikers know what a challenge it is to experience solitude on the Snow Lake Trail near Snoqualmie Pass. Nothing less than significant snow seems to deter hikers from this trail -- neither inclement weather nor short days.
Your best chance for solitude on this popular trail is during midweek or what some refer to as the "transitional season," like now, as snow levels rise and fall, with accumulations that melt away soon after they form.
By Karen Sykes | November 14, 2002
The days are growing short and the flowers are gone. Snow has already fallen in the mountains but retreated again, pushed back by our lingering Indian summer. The Thorp Mountain lookout near Salmon La Sac is a great hike for that transitional season between fall and winter. Besides, a fresh dusting of snow only enhances the frail beauty of the lookout near Salmon La Sac.
By Karen Sykes | October 31, 2002
Hikers seeking a good workout, great views, and solitude will enjoy Scatter Creek Trail No. 1328 near Salmon la Sac. And walking it will do this seldom-hiked trail a favor, as it is beginning to disappear in the upper meadows below Scatter Creek Pass.
By Karen Sykes | September 5, 2002
If your route-finding skills are sharp and you enjoy a challenge, you'll love the Johnson Ridge Trail near Skykomish. The trail leads to the summit of Scorpion Mountain before descending to trail's end at Joan Lake.
Hikers with an interest in history also will appreciate this route. It is part of an extensive old trail system that continued to several high points, including Captain Point, before running into Stevens Pass. The Johnson Ridge Trail is a good sampling of these old trails and is still maintained.
By Karen Sykes | August 15, 2002
Hikers seeking alpine scenery with 360-degree views won't be disappointed with the Norse Peak Trail.
The trail is partially in the Norse Peak Wilderness (established in 1984) situated just northeast of Mount Rainier National Park near the Crystal Mountain ski area. It's a 3,000-foot climb to the site of the Norse Peak lookout, but closeup views of Mount Rainier compensate for the steep route.
By Karen Sykes | August 8, 2002
Waterfalls can provide a welcome relief when temperatures soar, and many hikers seek easier hikes on hot days. Franklin Falls and Denny Creek near Snoqualmie Pass are ideal in both respects.
These easy hikes feature cool, clear water -- waterfalls, streams and water-scoured rocks that make dandy water slides. The hikes are family favorites and begin from the same trailhead. Hikers wanting more exercise can continue on from Denny Creek to Melakwa Lake in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
By Karen Sykes | July 25, 2002
