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Into the Wilderness

On a mid-summer day I drove to the north side of Trapper Creek Wilderness, a nine square-mile designated wilderness in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

It was a nice sunny day and I was the only one at the trailhead.

I hiked to two interesting destinations – – – 4,200-foot Observation Peak and 4,300-foot Sister Rocks. Ripe huckleberries were scattered all along the trails.

After reaching the summit of Observation Peak, an old fire lookout site, I spent time photographing the pretty gentian and bluebell wildflowers in bloom. The open, rocky summit is always a dandy spot for wildflowers. And, I enjoyed the views stretching over the Columbia River Gorge to Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams to the east and Mt. St. Helens to the north.

Next I hiked to neighboring Sister Rocks. Again the views were spectacular, especially Mt. St. Helens to the north and Observation Peak to the south.

But, sad news upon reaching the trailhead. My right front tire was down almost 50%. Instead of trying to change it (they are heavy, kevlar-lined tires), I managed to drive the 20 miles to the nearest town, Carson WA, put air in the tire, before it went any flatter. One more stop in Troutdale OR for air, then home to drop off the hiking gear. A short drive and the tire was fixed at Les Schwab for free. They are a great place to do business.

Much more excitement than I needed on a nice summer’s day!

Gentian, Wildflower (?), and Gentian

Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, all from Observation Peak

Scouler’s Bluebell, Huckleberry, and Round-leaf Bluebell

Into the wilderness and the Trailhead