Ten anxious Boomers headed to Mt. Pilchuck off Mountain Loop Highway outside of Granite Falls. Driving from Bellingham, the marine layer became deeper, as did our facial worry-lines. At the trailhead the sky cleared, producing endless views. The trail is known for scree and boulder fields, so it can be a real ankle-buster. Caution is in order on this 2.7 mile hike with 2,300 feet of elevation gain. The last few feet up requires packing away your trekking poles and using your whole body to hoist yourself up the huge boulders to the ladder leading to the lookout. Constructed in 1921, the fire lookout provided a great place for PB&J and photo ops. Views of Mt. Baker and Mt. Rainier peeped up out of the clouds which had settled below us as a dense, white blanket. It’s a magical place, with or without cloud cover. The way down is just as tricky as the way up, as foot placement is critical. All-in-all, a physical hike not to be missed!
Ten anxious Boomers headed to Mt. Pilchuck off Mountain Loop Highway outside of Granite Falls. Driving from Bellingham, the marine layer became deeper, as did our facial worry-lines. At the trailhead the sky cleared, producing endless views. The trail is known for scree and boulder fields, so it can be a real ankle-buster. Caution is in order on this 2.7 mile hike with 2,300 feet of elevation gain. The last few feet up requires packing away your trekking poles and using your whole body to hoist yourself up the huge boulders to the ladder leading to the lookout. Constructed in 1921, the fire lookout provided a great place for PB&J and photo ops. Views of Mt. Baker and Mt. Rainier peeped up out of the clouds which had settled below us as a dense, white blanket. It’s a magical place, with or without cloud cover. The way down is just as tricky as the way up, as foot placement is critical. All-in-all, a physical hike not to be missed!