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Trapper Creek Wilderness

In late August I drove to the north side of the Trapper Creek Wilderness. My plan was to hike to 4,200-foot Observation Peak and 4,300-foot Sister Rocks.

As in many great plans, I ran into a snag. Unbeknownst to me, the area had been engulfed in the 2020 Big Hollow Fire northeast of Carson, Washington. The wildfire ultimately covered 25,000 acres and was not extinguished until the winter snows.

The last two miles to the trailhead on a very rough dirt road had burnt trees and brush everywhere. Thankfully, the road had been cleared of blowdowns.

Upon reaching the trailhead, I spotted a large yellow caution sign nailed to a burnt tree. Since I was by myself, I could smell smoke, and there were no other hikers, I decided to save the hike for another day. In truth, I expect much of the north side of the Trapper Creek Wilderness is burnt from the wildfire.

Before returning home, I took a drive over Oldman Pass to the McClellan Viewpoint. Sad to say, but Mt. St. Helens was in a heavy bank of haze from distant wildfires.

There were five Porsche Turbo Macans at the Viewpoint from a car club. My spirits were lifted by seeing the owners having a good time at the overlook.