January 30, 2016 Big Creek Loop Trail #3 of my 52 Hike Challenge
The Big Creek Loop Trail is just off the shores of Lake Cushman, a trailhead I have unwittingly passed over a dozen times. At only five miles in length, it would be easy to pass up in search of a longer trail, but with 900' elevation gain, this short trail is a good little workout.
Stillwood Creek
The entire trail is in the shadow of Mount Ellinor, with a side spur to a scenic view of her (I will take that on the next trip). We hiked through old- and second-growth forest and were always within earshot of the creeks. We made multiple creek crossings on bridges that made me think of the Billy Goats Gruff - I half expected a troll to appear and ask "Who is that trip-trap, trip-trapping across my bridge?" There are many well-placed benches along the trail, whether for a much-needed rest, lunch, or simply to reflect and enjoy the peaceful solitude of the forest. Their presence made me think of my mother and my granddaughter, both of whom never met a bench they didn't like.
Our weather for this trip was perfect. January in the PNW is typically cold, wet and grey. After a week of such weather, we were blessed with chilly sunshine - the colder air helped to keep us cool as we climbed the steady grade of the trail. I was joined by my good friend Holly, new hiking buddies Evie and Andrea, my former son-in-law Josh and his new beau, and my ever faithful four-legged hiking companion Zillah. I couldn't have asked for a better day, and this trail will surely be added to my list of all-time favorites. It's close enough to home, and short enough in length, to be hiked mid-week after work, or as a quick escape from housework.
And, of course, since this was on "my side" of the Olympics, I stopped for a scoop of my favorite Lemon-Lavender Ice Cream... All is good in the universe.
No comments:
Post a Comment