In mid-June I was unable to reach the trailhead on the north side of Trapper Creek Wilderness due to deep snow and fallen trees. In early July I returned to the nine square-mile designated wilderness in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
It was a beautiful day with crystal blue skies. I was looking forward to spectacular views of five snow-covered Cascade volcanoes.
I hiked to two interesting destinations – – – 4,200-foot Observation Peak and 4,300-foot Sister Rock.
After reaching the summit of Observation Peak, an old fire lookout site, I spent time photographing the colorful wildflowers in bloom. The open, rocky summit is always a dandy spot for wildflowers. And, I admired the snow-covered jewels of the Pacific Northwest Cascade Mountains.
Next I hiked to neighboring Sister Rock. The bright white plumes of beargrass, and many other wildflowers, added colorful variety along the way.
A wonderful hike of only seven miles.
Beautiful photos, John. I was at that trail head about a year ago and the place was swarming with yellowjackets. We didn’t even get out of our car, they seemed to be attacking our windows
–it was crazy!
I didn’t see any bees, but there were lots of little black flies and mosquitoes. There was just enough of a breeze to keep them down most of the time.
There is nothing on this planet like the Cascade range. Your photos of these majestic beauties were a real pleasure, John. Whenever I am flying from northern Calif. to Seattle, I settle in next to the window to admire all the peaks. Your photos from this observation point relaxed and entertained me. I especially like the shot of Mt. Rainier with the beargrass in foreground. Wonderful to see the wild orchids too. And the one of blown-top Mt. St. Helens with the dappled-effect snow looks like a painting. All so lovely.
Thanks for the kind comments. We are oh so lucky to have so many “pocket” wildernesses close by.
Great post!
Thanks!
Welcome!