I enjoy hiking in the Coastal Mountains. It is verdant and beautiful country.
On the first day of spring I drove almost to the crest of the Coastal Range, parking at the Gales Creek Forest Camp.
Several years ago the Gales Creek Trail was repaired and reopened. But, keeping the trail open is an endless task. The area continues to suffer many washouts and blowdowns.
Most of the trail is at or near the bottom of the deep Gales Creek Canyon. After the first six miles, the next mile is fairly steep as it climbs out of the headbasin to the summit at Bell Camp Road.
There were many trilliums in bloom along the trail, and a few wood sorrel, toothworts and stream violets. On the downside, I endured 6 1/2 hours of non-stop rain.
Because of the immense amount of rainfall this winter, there were many streams to ford. At several of the locations there were eye-catching waterfalls to see.
After taking a break at Bell Camp Road, it was time to return to the trailhead.
A very wet, but superb way to spend a day.
A copse of Red Alder surrounding the trail
Wood Sorrel with its characteristic shamrock-shaped leaf
One of many waterfalls along the trail
Springboard slot on stump of a Douglas Fir logged a good century ago
Remains of a recently killed Blacktail Deer (probably a Cougar)
New signpost about one mile from trailhead
Classic Rain Forest scene along the trail (another springboard slot)
Pleasant stretch of the lower trail (sword ferns and Red Alders line the trail)
Small waterfall along the trail
Trillium
A three-stage, wispy waterfall along the trail
Red Alder bark
Great shots John.
Thanks Geoff. I suspect I’m like you – – – it’s about time we get some sunny hikes. The webs between my toes need to go!
To me, a rainy day on the west side of the mountains is pure bliss. Thank you for sharing your great eye and skill. Sandy Covey
Thanks for the kind words Sandy.