Murhut Falls

February 20, 2016

Can I just say, the Olympic Peninsula is an amazing place? No matter which area you are travelling, you are going to be treated with eye-candy. If the weather is clear, as it was this day, you're going to go into visual diabetic coma from the uber-sweet eye candy. In my opinion, some of the best diabetic-inducing eye candy can be found at Lake Crescent, especially if you're there on a clear day when the waters are calm.

 

 



Perfection.


After an enriching hike to Sol Duc Falls and soul quenching drive around Lake Crescent, I found myself southbound on Hwy 101, following Hood Canal home. The problem was, I wasn't quite ready to go home yet. There are a couple of waterfalls on the Hood Canal side of the Olympics that can be reached via short trails I am aware of. One of them, Murhut Falls, I had not yet visited. I glanced at the clock, did some quick mental calculation as to how much daylight I had left, and turned on the road to the Duckabush Recreation Area. A short while later, after testing the durability of the stock struts on a Ford Mustang, I arrived at the trailhead.

This is a short trail with just enough elevation gain thrown in to make it interesting. It wasn't but a matter of 15 minutes or so before I reached the falls. The winter sunlight was beginning to fade, but even so, it was a sight to behold as the water plunges 130 feet. It's tall enough that, from the vantage point of the trail (where there is a nice bench - never met one I didn't like) capturing it in one photo frame is difficult without a wide angle lens. My iPhone isn't equipped with wide angle anything, so I canted it at an angle and captured about 3/4 of the waterfall.

After spending enough time there to admire the beauty of the falls, I high-tailed it back to my car. Although equipped with a flashlight, I wasn't looking forward to hiking down the trail in the dark. Nor was I looking forward to navigating the mine-field of potholes with my mud covered headlights.

It was thus I wrapped up a perfect day. I arrived home to the joyous relief of the dogs, who welcomed me with wagging tails and inquisitive noses. Where had I been? What had I done? Why did was there the lingering smell of a strange dog on my clothes?

Yep. Perfection.

52 Hike Challenge: Hike #7

Distance hiked: 1.6 miles
Elevation gained: 250 ft. 

Sol Duc Falls

February 20, 2016


On the coastal side of the Olympics, about an hour outside of Port Angeles, one can find the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. I usually avoid the area like the plague because, to me, the word 'resort' is synonymous with 'crowd'. During the summer months when the resort is open, this may very well be the case (but it's not likely I'll be headed there to check my theory). During the winter and early-springtime, however, you are far less likely to encounter large numbers of people on the trail. Thus it was that a bright, sunny Saturday in February found me on a solo hike up to the falls.


There are two trails to access the falls: the first being a loop from the resort, and a second, shorter and easier route accessed from a parking area. I chose the route from the resort.

There was a light coating of fresh snow on the ground. The sun shone through the upper canopy of the trees, filtered by a fine mist. Paired with the snow on the trail and the mossy green of the forest floor, it was beautiful beyond words. I had to occasionally stop to allow my soul to soak it all in. With each cleansing breath I could feel the stresses of my daily life wash away. I was slowly being enveloped by the peaceful serenity that I only find in the forest. With the sun's rays sparkling off the mist, I half expected to see fairies dancing about but, alas, it was just me and the trees. I could have lingered there forever, however I needed to get moving if I was ever to reach the falls, so onward I ventured.

Not too far up the trail I came to the first of what would become several ... um ... obstacles. I came to a stream. There was a puncheon (footbridge) for me to cross the stream. No problem. Except that it didn't actually cross the stream. This could definitely pose a problem. I stood there for a moment thinking to myself, "Huh. Interesting..." I pondered the situation for a bit, surveyed the surrounding area, and found a place upstream a bit where I could hop across on rocks, logs and lumps of grass/moss (which, I'd like to point out, are never as supportive as they seem). Proud of my problem-solving, I merrily proceeded on my way.  

Another 1,000 feet or so up the trail I encountered the next hindrance to my progress. It seems a "water feature" had appeared in a low-point of the trail; one that was over 10 feet across and roughly 8" at it's deepest spot. For reference, the snowy patch in my photo is where the trail resumes. Fun, right? Again employing my troubleshooting skills, I found a log that I could reach via rocks and whatnot, using the surrounding small brush for balance. Of course, the log was decaying and covered in wet snow which made for an interesting crossing, but cross I did ... and with dry feet, I'd like to add. Once on the other side I raised my arms in a small triumphant gesture. "YES! Rocked that one!"


Feeling pretty darned good about my solo venture thus far, I carefully picked my way across the snow field and along the slushy trail that lay before me. I rounded the next corner and ran smack dab into two downed trees. My jaw dropped, incredulous, as I uttered "Are you kidding me??" I won't include the picture because you wouldn't believe it either. Sigh. Oh well, every hiking enthusiast knows that there are occasionally going to be trails like this. I pushed my way through the jumble of branches and roots and continued on my way. I met up with the trail from the parking lot after about 2-1/2 miles. From here I was roughly half a mile from the lower falls. There was no snow or slush on this portion of the trail, just a little mud here and there - apparently the fairies I was looking for down below had been busy clearing this upper trail. How nice of them.

I came to the lower portion of Sol Duc Falls first and was immediately glad I didn't turn around back at the downed trees. It was beautiful. The forest canopy is healthy in this area, so everything was cast in diffused lighting that seemed to enhance the colors. I sat here for a few minutes, listening to the rushing water crash and tumble it's way downhill. There was the occasional chirp of a bird as it flitted about above me. As much as I would have stayed longer, I knew another set of falls awaited me so I again returned from my daydreams of another world and continued on my way up the trail.

The main attraction of this trail is the upper section of Sol Duc Falls. They are probably one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Olympic National Park. They never receive direct light and, at the right time of day, you can capture the rays of the sun filtering through the trees over the falls, creating rainbows in the mist. I, however, am not a photographer, so any photo I share with you just won't do the scene justice. Here, the Sol Duc River splits and crashes 50 feet down into a narrow chasm. The roar of the water fills the air, as does the misty spray. There is a bench at the top where you can sit to soak it all in ... literally and figuratively.

I stayed here a short while as well, enjoying the solitude and weighing my options for my return trip. It was then that I met the nicest couple - Chris & Yvonne Herr, proprietors of the Ambiance Bed and Breakfast in Sequim. They graciously agreed to give me a ride down the road to my car, which saved me from re-tracing my steps down the trail, or the boredom of hoofing it down the road on foot. Should you be interested in a quiet weekend away, please check them out at http://ambiancebnbwa.com/. I love this genuine, friendly and open couple (and their Great Pyreneese, Stella) and can see us becoming friends down the road.

"...and the Forests will Echo with Laughter..."



This was a great adventure. I don't often hike solo, but was happy to do so on this trail. I tackled the obstacles that presented themselves with optimism, confidence and enthusiasm. The elevation gain on this trail was negligible, therefore I was able to push my pace a bit faster. Although I enjoy hiking at a slower pace, I am often left behind by my faster hiking friends who don't want to wait for me. It felt good to push myself a little. I couldn't have asked for nicer weather or a prettier trail.

52 Hike Challenge; Hike #6

Distance Hiked: 3.2 miles
Elevation Gained: 400ft

 

June Lake

February 13, 2016


I love winter. I don't particularly care for being cold all the time, but that's what fleece is for. The gray skies don't typically bother me and any opportunity to get out and play in the snow makes even the grayest day better. I look forward to my snowshoe adventures for precisely that reason - the chance to get out and play in the snow. Quite often there are snow angels and snowball fights involved. There is almost always laughter and you can count on memories being made. Although still an enjoyable opportunity to get out in the woods, snowshoeing in the rain just doesn't pack as much fun into the day. 


I have been looking forward to a return snowshoe trip to June Lake, on the south side of Mount St Helens since my last trip. I had a great time when I was there a few years ago and was excited to be sharing this next trip with my friend Holly, and our engineering intern Aaron; my sister Heidi went both trips and I always enjoy hitting the trail with her. I scheduled the date then watched the weather forecasts and read other hikers' trip reports. They were predicting gray skies with a 70% chance of rain ... following a week of warmer weather. I was hoping that rain would mean snow at the trail. We started getting a bit concerned when we were within a mile or so of the Sno-Park and had only encountered minimal snow. Our luck prevailed, however, and we had roughly 3 feet of the white stuff at the parking lot. Not exactly optimal snow levels, but satisfactory enough. We donned our packs, strapped on our snowshoes and headed out in a light rain. 

The June Lake trail is a nice winter wonderland type trail that meanders through the woods with nominal elevation gain (500 feet in 2 miles). The lake itself sits in the shadow of Mount St Helens which, if you venture another 1/4 mile past the lake on a clear day, you can view. The lake sports the added bonus of a ponytail waterfall that partially freezes in colder weather.

There had been no recent snowfall thus the trail was fairly compacted and easy to follow. The light rain at the trailhead stayed with us and, instead of turning to snow as we climbed, just rained harder ... which served to compact the trail even more. By the time we reached the lake, we were starting to get pretty wet. We each took a few photos, then tucked ourselves in under the protection of the trees to eat lunch. We are such rugged gnarly women! The rain continued to fall, not intending to grant us a reprieve from our drenching at all. Fortunately it wasn't torrential, just steady. From lunch we headed back down the trail to the car, got out of our wet clothes and headed to Starbucks for some warm happiness in a cup.

All in all, this was a good hike, albeit a wet one. I enjoy snowshoeing this trail and would like to return to hike it in the summer some time.


These early season hikes have been planned to get me out and keep my body moving in the hopes that I won't experience all the problems I had with my hips and knees last year. I felt the exertion of this one in my thighs, which was expected. I have been a little surprised by how easily winded I am with such minimal elevation I've been facing, so will need to work on my stamina before facing the tougher trails coming up.


52 Hike Challenge; #5
Miles Hiked: 5
Elevation Gain: 500 feet

Elk Lakes

February 6, 2016

Elk Lakes trail has two trailheads. Our trip took us up a 'primitive but drivable' road to the less utilized trailhead. I'd like to remind readers that I drive a Mustang ... which made for an 'interesting' drive. My Shiloh performed like the performance vehicle that she is and we arrived with a sigh of relief only a few white knuckles. Once at the trailhead we stretched a bit, donned our packs and hit the trail.

The trail itself is in good condition and not overly difficult or strenuous. Most of the elevation gain came at the beginning of the trail, which helped to get our juices flowing. Our destination was Lower then Upper Elk Lakes. Before long we came to the point where we believe the bridge across Jefferson Creek used to reside. The trail guide, as well as a sign at the trailhead, had advised us that the bridge was out. Both advised exercising caution crossing the creek. We were prepared to cross a creek on stepping stones. We were not, however, prepared for the torrents of water rushing over rapids with nary a stepping stone in sight. I must have a different definition of the term "creek"...

We continued on up the trail in search of a safer crossing point and came to the prettiest little lake. This was either Lower Elk Lake, or a pond created by some downed trees. Either way, it was a gorgeous teal in color and reflected the subdued colors of a dormant forest in hibernation. The trail continued on up the hill and so did we. Just off the trail at one point was an interesting object - someone had decorated an old tank of some sort to resemble a hut/cabin for trolls or hobbits.

Two miles from the trailhead we came out of the woods ... at the other trailhead. It was here we turned around for our return trip. We stopped at a makeshift camp on the shore of the lake for lunch, then back to the cars.

We may not have reached our original destination of Upper Elk Lake, but that didn't stop us from enjoying the day. Although a tad chilly, the previous day's storm had blown over and gifted us with dry weather. Altogether, this was a near perfect day.

Zillah and I on the bank of Jefferson Creek

52 Hike Challenge, #4
Miles Hiked: 4
Elevation Gain: 400 ft

 

 

HAMMA HAMMA RIVER

 

 

 

 

Big Creek Loop Trail

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.


Length; 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 900'   

A New Year's Perspective

January 2016

As has become a tradition for me, I welcomed the new year outdoors. I was blessed to spend the first day of 2016 snowshoeing on Mount Baker with my grandson Buster, and new friends Evie & Andrea. The weather was about as perfect as it could be, the snow was fabulous, and the company wonderful. There was plenty of time for introspective and reflection - what did I want to gain in this new year? Where did I see myself at the end of the year and what was I going to do to get there? In what areas do I need to grow? How do I become a better person?

I will be returning to the crater rim of Mt St Helens again this year. My sister fell ill just prior last year's climb. Although I loved sharing the experience with the friends who made the trip, I missed having my little sister at my side. This return trip will be for her - I gained what I needed on a personal level from last year's climb.

Since I will be out hiking to maintain my conditioning for this year's climb, I signed up for a 52 Hike Challenge. It is my goal to log 52 hikes between now and the end of September. I will post details here for the enjoyment of my readers. I am looking forward to the challenge as it gives me the incentive to get out on some new trails, as well as returning to a few favorites.

The mountains continue to call to me - and I continue to answer that call. I plan to summit 12 peaks this year. Some will be return trips, but I also hope to add a few new ones to my list. I love the symbolism of attaining summits - for me it is a spiritual journey rather than a desire to conquer. There is nothing macho about arrogance. Instead I pursue grace, humility, and a unification of spirits. This is growth, right? Can I become a better person by learning and accepting my place in the universe? Perhaps not, but there's no harm in trying.

I had really hoped to be able to share this year's adventure with my grandson, Buster. He has enjoyed hiking with me the past few years and is becoming a good little outdoorsman. He very much wanted to do Mt St Helens with me this year. With a little dedication to conditioning and support from his 'hiking family', I have little doubt that he could make the journey. As of this writing, he no longer has his mother's permission to go. I continue to hope she will come around and stand by her original decision to let him join us. Sharing the experience with both my sister and my grandson would just about put me on the moon...

My perspective this year isn't so much about proving to myself that I "can" ... but to bolster the self-confidence I developed last year. To nurture the adventurous spirit that makes me restless. To build relationships with my friends and family, as well as the natural world around me. To learn, and explore, and connect.    

Beckler Peak

October 17, 2015

Now that Mt St Helens is behind me, I have been struggling with the question "What's next? Where do I go from here?" I have enjoyed the challenges of the past few months, facing my weaknesses and overcoming my struggles. My answer was found in my unfinished bucket list of hikes. On that list, the pinnacle, so to speak, is the Pacific Crest Trail. Just uttering the letters PCT scares me - I know that the physical, mental and emotional demands would far outweigh those of Mt St Helens, should I endeavor to attempt the 2,663 mile expedition. One thing for sure, if I ever hope to attempt the PCT, I need to continue conditioning.

Thus, on a beautiful autumn Saturday in October, my boots hit the dust on the Jennifer Dunn Trail, which winds its way through a tranquil forest to the summit of Beckler Peak. This is a rebuilt trail that was opened a few years ago and hasn't made it into many of the trail guidebooks yet, therefore it isn't packed like so many close-in trails. The work that went in to the trail was evident at every turn, from the wide footpath  to the granite boulder steps.

The trail slowly and steadily climbs up the side of the mountain, never ridiculously intense, with well-placed stairs in the areas that are a bit steeper. From time to time you catch a teasing glimpse of the scenic treat that awaits you at the top.

As seems to have become commonplace, the gap between me and the faster hikers of our group became great enough that there were just two of us hiking together - myself and Stan. As we climbed, I found myself laboring more than I felt I should have been with a trail of this level. The effects of the four week hiatus were evident. Nevertheless, we continued upwards until we reached the false summit, where the remainder of our group awaited our arrival. The view from here was amazing. We could see Glacier Peak and, faintly off in the distance, Mount Baker. It was beautiful.

But we hadn't reached the summit yet, so we pushed on another few hundred yards. Let me tell you, if the view from the false summit was amazing, what was awaiting us at the summit was breathtakingly spectacular. The Cascade range surrounded us on all sides and every direction we turned offered another astounding scene. We could see Mt Baring, Mt Index, and the Monte Cristo range. Glacier Peak loomed in the distance, watching over us with stoic indifference. As we sat on the white granite boulders eating lunch, we were soon joined by a few other hikers. We finished eating, packed up and relinquished the summit to them so that they, too, could fully embrace the dramatic views.

Atop the summit

On the way down I found myself struggling ... again. What the heck? My hips and knees weren't cooperating and my quads felt weak. I started to get discouraged but reminded myself that I was just three weeks post-surgery. I did my best to pick up my pace when I felt it slowing, and drove myself on until our return to the trailhead.

Once back home, I got back on my stair climber and pounded out roughly six flights. Take that, you fickle quads!

Will I ever scratch the PCT off my bucket list? Only time will tell. I have set a goal date and will keep on hiking and climbing in pursuit of attaining that goal, crossing trails and peaks off the list as I go. I will continue journaling about my adventures here, in the event any of you readers choose to follow my exploits.

Distance hiked: 7.4 miles
Elevation gained: 2,263'
Highest point: 5,063'