Winter weekend getaway in Leavenworth

A Publication of Washington Trails Association | wta.org

Northwest Exposure Winners Revealed!

10 Trails for This Winter State Parks Centennial 2013 Volunteer Vacations

Jan+Feb 2013 Jan+Feb 2013

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16 32 NW Weekend: Leavenworth » Eli Boschetto NW Explorer An alpine holiday is waiting for you on the east side of the Cascades. Snowshoe, ski, take in the annual Ice Fest Northwest Exposure celebration or just relax away from home. » p.20 Congratulations to the winners of WTA's 2012 Northwest Exposure photo contest. Images from across the state— Tales From the Trail » Craig Romano and a calendar for planning hikes too! » center Guidebook author Craig Romano shares insights and lessons learned from years of hiking experience. » p.24 Nordic Washington » Holly Weiler Hit the tracks this winter on Nordic skis. Destinations Epic Trails » Wonderland » Tami Asars across Washington will help you find your ideal escape at Info and tips to help you plan your own hiking adventure some of the best resorts and Sno-Parks. » p.16 on the classic round-the-mountain trail. » p.32

WTA at Work 2013 marks the 100th anniversary of Trail Work » Sarah Rich Washington's state park system. With Bridge-building in the Methow » p.10 more than 700 miles of hiking trails, Engineering Trails » Janice Van Cleve make a plan to visit one this year. » p.8 Turnpikes—what they are and how they're constructed » p.12

Advocacy » Jonathan Guzzo Budget concerns for 2013 » p.14

Youth on Trails » Krista Dooley Snowshoeing with kids » p.15 Trail Mix Gear Closet » Winter camping essentials » p.22

Nature Nook » Tami Asars Birds, beasts and blooms in the NW » p.25 Cape Disappointment, by Jeremy Horton

2 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org Guest Contributors

TAMI ASARS is a writer, photographer and career hiker. At every opportunity, Craig Romano grew up in rural New Hampshire she puts her trail skills to work selecting where he bonded with the natural world. He is the author the perfect spiderweb-whacking sticks, of nine books, among them Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula, determining time and distance traveled Day Hiking North Cascades, Day Hiking Columbia by the position of the sun, and identifying River Gorge, Backpacking Washington, and Columbia bird calls. Wherever there is trail, Tami Highlands: Exploring Washington’s Last Frontier, which was always finds something charming—even recognized in 2010 as a Washington Reads book for its on the snoozers. As a Washington Trails contribution to the state’s cultural heritage. He lives with regional correspondent, Tami often his wife Heather and feline office assistants Giuseppe and contributes her trail expertise to the nature section—look for her Scruffy Gray in Skagit County. new column, “Nature Nook.” Also in this issue, Tami shares some of her love and knowledge of Mount Rainier's Wonderland Trail in the Paul Raymaker discovered nature photography first of the new “Epic Trails” series. Look for Tami’s new book, Hiking when he spent a summer in the mountains of Colorado. the Wonderland Trail: The Complete Guide to Mount Rainier’s Premier Since then, he hasn’t put his camera down. In 2007, he Trail, at local retailers and at tamiasars.com. moved from Wisconsin to Seattle to work as a geologist at an environmental consulting firm, while shooting Washington’s trails in every spare moment he had. Nature photography is Holly Weiler started hiking in now Paul’s passion, his goal being to show others the beauty 2001 to supplement her other favorite that surrounds all of us, and encouraging people to care more outdoor pursuit, trail running. She for their environment and where they live. He has been a long- joined the Spokane Mountaineers time contributor to Washington Trails, and has placed several in 2003, and currently serves on the winning images in WTA’s Northwest Exposure photo contest. Mountaineers’ Board of Trustees and co-chairs the hiking committee. She has been known to tackle 40+ JANICE VAN CLEVE is a foodie, wine taster and mile dayhikes just for fun, enjoys writer, with a focus on Mayan archeology. She was the occasional solo backpack trip introduced to the joys of hiking in the Cascades in and frequently leads shorter group hikes and backpacks 1994; in 2004, she joined WTA. Janice is now a Fireside for the Mountaineers or conservation groups. A three-time Circle member and has earned her saw for more than participant in Hike-a-Thon, she is already plotting ways 50 days of trail maintenance. She enjoys day hiking in to increase her 2013 mileage and fundraising goals. Holly the I-90 corridor, but for backpacking she heads for coaches the University High School girls cross country team. the Teanaways. Her books and research papers can be found at mayas.doodlekit.com. Northwest Exposure Turn to the center of this issue for a special presentation of the Northwest Exposure photo contest winners! And for even more photos, turn to pages 34–35 for this year's editor's picks and honorable mentions. What's Your Story? Grand Prize Have you taken an amazing hike in Lijuan Guo, grand prize winner of Washington or the greater Northwest? WTA's 2012 Northwest Exposure Captured some gorgeous photos? Perhaps photo contest, loves snowshoeing had a riotous good time on a Volunteer and winter camping on Mount Vacation or BCRT? Or maybe you're an Baker. He spends many a sleepless expert on marmot behavior, wilderness night taking photos of stars and first-aid or repairing gear on the fly? Then experimenting with light. This we want to hear from you. photo was one of them, taken in early summer on the still-snowy Washington Trails welcomes editorial and slopes of Artist Point. To capture photography contributions of all sorts. Share the stars of the Milky Way, Lijuan with us your adventure, some history, some used his Nikon D800 with a 14–24 know-how or some great imagery. mm wide-angle lens and a timed, long exposure at ISO 1600. He For more information on how you can adjusted the color temperature in contribute to Washington Trails, email post-processing. [email protected].

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 3 Washington Trails Association

Staff Picks: What is on your rainy-day reading list this winter?

Board of Directors President WENDY WHEELER JACOBS – Wild, Cheryl Strayed VP, Advocacy STEPHEN TAN VP, Board Development CRAIG MCKIBBEN VP, Communications & Tech ROB SHURTLEFF Editor's picks: Plan your own Mount From ancient burial places to the piles Rainier Wonderland Trail adventure of rocks that pave our way on trails, VP, Finance DOUG BRECKEL with this new guidebook... this reader covers.... 1 like 7 repins 2 likes 3 repins VP, Fundraising STEVE PAYNE Secretary CAROLE BIANQUIS mountaineersbooks.org burkemuseum.org ANDREA BAINES, LISA BLACK PERRY BURKHART, JEFF CHAPMAN – NEPA, agency and research documents (fun!) Check out WTA's hiking library AMY CSINK, TODD DUNFIELD pinterest.com/wtahikers LAURIE HARTSHORN*, DAMIEN MURPHY – The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkein* BILL POPE, KATE ROGERS*, ADAM RYND – The Mountain of My Fear, David Roberts*

Share hikes, get trail news and join the Staff Executive Director KAREN DAUBERT – Everest: The West Ridge, Tom Hornbein conversation at wta.org. Advocacy Director JONATHAN GUZZO – The Pale King, David Foster Wallace facebook.com/ Bookkeeper Ilona Fauver – Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert washingtonhikers Chief Crew Leader MIKE OWENS – Cloud Atlas, David Mitchell twitter.com/ Communications Director SUSAN ELDERKIN – Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher WTA_hikers Development Director REBECCA LAVIGNE – Walking the Beach to Bellingham Development Manager LISA UNSOELD-CHANG – Refuge, Terry Tempest Williams Dev. & Comm. Assistant LUCY SHIRLEY – Let the Great World Spin, Colum McCann Digital Content Manager LOREN DRUMMOND – The Brothers K, David J. Duncan Washington Trails Association is a volunteer-driven Editor & Art Director ELI BOSCHETTO – The Last Season, Eric Blehm nonprofit membership organization working to preserve, Engagement Manager KINDRA RAMOS – Flight Behavior, Barbara Kingsolver enhance and promote hiking opportunities in Washington Field Director ALAN CARTER MORTIMER – Winter Brothers, Ivan Doig state through collaboration, education, advocacy and trail Finance & Admin. Manager DEB HEMINGWAY – The Rope, Nevada Barr maintenance. Membership Manager KARA CHIN – fluff and nonsense WTA was founded by Louise B. Marshall (1915–2005). Ira NW Crew Leader ARLEN BOGAARDS – Growing Vegetables West of the Cascades Spring (1918–2003) was its primary supporter. Greg Ball Office Administrator JULIE CASSATA – House of Stone, Anthony Shadid (1944–2004) founded the volunteer Program Assistant SARAH RICH – Flight Behavior, Barbara Kingsolver trail maintenance program. Their spirit Project Coordinator TIM VAN BEEK continues today through contributions SW Regional Coordinator RYAN OJERIO – Where the Wild Things Are, Maurice Sendak from thousands of WTA members and Trail Programs Director MICHAEL STUBBLEFIELD – My First Summer in the Sierra, J. Muir volunteers. Volunteer Coordinator ALYSSA KREIDER – Farm City, Novella Carpenter Washington Trails Association Youth Programs Manager KRISTA DOOLEY – The Art of Innovation, Tom Kelley 705 2nd Ave, Suite 300, Seattle, Youth Programs Specialist ALEXA LINDAUER – Anna Karenina, Leo Tolstoy WA 98104 • (206) 625-1367 Washington Trails Volunteers Copy Editors JIM CAVIN, REBECCA KETTWIG Washington Trails Vol. 49, Issue 1 Proofer MITZI SUGAR – The Cliff Walk, Don J. Snyder Owner & Publisher Gear Team LYNETTE ALBER, JAIME HALE WASHINGTON TRAILS ASSOCIATION KRISTEN SAPOWICZ, JOHN SOLTYS Washington Trails (ISSN 1534-6366) is published bimonthly by the Regional Correspondents TAMI ASARS Washington Trails Association, 705 Second Ave, NATHAN & JER BARNES, KIMBERLY CRAIG Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98104. KELSIE DONLEYCOTT, DAWN ERICKSON Annual membership dues, which include a subscription to Washington Trails magazine, are $40. Single copy price is $4.50. Periodicals postage DAVID HAGEN, CHERI HIGMAN paid at Seattle, WA, and at additional mailing locations. LINDSAY LEFFELMAN, BRITTANY MANWILL POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Washington Trails Association, ASHLEY MORRISON, MIKE MORRISON 705 Second Ave., Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98104. AARON THEISEN, HOLLY WEILER

4 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org Front Desk WTA Highlights » A few things we wanted to share Karen Daubert Executive Director [email protected]

Planning Ahead

Our plan had been a year-end family hike on the trails of Paradise. Then our car started sliding treacherously on glassy ice. Determined to hike, we turned around and gingerly made our way to the Comet Falls trailhead instead. When rain turned to snow and the trail turned to ice, we changed our plans again. We didn’t make it to the falls, but the hike was so much better than what we had planned. The drama of the first winter storm, bonding over freezing fingers and laughing over forgotten crampons made this a family outing to remember.

Every hiker knows the importance of flexibility in planning. On the trail or off, circumstances change, but with the right mindset and tools these unexpected moments can become true opportunities.

Flexibility is one of the greatest strengths of WTA’s new strategic plan. While providing clear direction for the years ahead, it also allows for change by providing a strategy by which WTA can react swiftly to new initiatives or a changing environment. Ongoing strategic thinking is part of our everyday work. We have set the stage for future growth, but remain open to new opportunities as they arise.

Throughout the year as we considered the feedback from you, our members, it became clear that we have a mandate to continue to do what we do so well—but to do it even better. So we will continue our work to keep Washington’s trails open, well maintained and accessible. We will better engage our community of hikers as advocates and stewards for trails. And we will foster the next generation of hikers.

In addition, WTA will start growing in two significant areas, both with a view to the future. First, we will deepen and broaden our engagement of the hiking community statewide to better meet the needs of hikers across Washington. In 2013, we are increasing our outreach to northwest Washington, strengthening our presence in and around Vancouver, and planning for growth in other areas of the state. Second, we will build on our established communication and outreach expertise to better engage more hikers who represent the community at large, and work to introduce even more people to the joys of wilderness. PHOTOS, FROM TOP: A big check means big things for WTA's trails program. Recreation This year, WTA will also be celebrating the 20th anniversary of the trail and Conservation Office Director Kaleen program and initiating the first-ever Washington Trails Day in 2013. We’ve Cottingham presents $175,000 from the got exciting plans for the year ahead, and the tools to tackle whatever National Recreational Trails Program (RTP) to comes our way. I look forward to sharing the new year with you. WTA at the Seattle Volunteer Appreciation party; The Washington Trails Association Board of Directors on its annual retreat in the Methow Valley; Hikers in 2012 contributed more than 6,000 trip reports to wta.org. Bob and Barb Griffith topped the list with 120 beautifully photographed reports from all over the state.

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 5 Signpost Editor’s Choice

Eli Boschetto Editor [email protected]

New for the New Year The new year. It's the time when everyone starts thinking about ways Stays Drier. Keeps Warmer. to improve themselves—more hiking, less working, better eating. Here at Dries Faster. Washington Trails, we start thinking about what we can do to improve the content we deliver to you, which in turn just might help you hike more and work less. And This was the slogan I saw at Sierra Designs’ we'll all try to eat better. DriDown demo at last year's Outdoor Retailer show. I thought, “Wow—this was made for the This year, we're rolling out several new features to help inspire and motivate Northwest!” I couldn't wait to get my hands on you to hit the trails even more. At the top of the list, we're proud to announce that some of these items and then put them to our Mountaineers Books authors Craig Romano and Tami Asars will be hosting their cold and soggy weather. own special columns in Washington Trails. Craig—you know him from the popular Day Hiking guidebook series—will be discussing trail experiences and current After wearing the Gnar Lite Jacket for the last hiking topics that interest and affect all hikers in “Tales from the Trail.” Following month, both on trail and around town, I can his column, you'll be able to join the conversation by logging onto WTA's faithfully put my editor's stamp of approval on Facebook page (facebook.com/washingtontrails) and sharing your own thoughts, this jacket as truly awesome. After all, who am opinions and insights. Tami, author of the new Hiking the Wonderland Trail guide I to argue with Backpacker, Outside, National and a Washington Trails regular—as well as photographer and nature lover— Geographic, Gear Junkie and a bevy of others? will be bringing a new column, “Nature Nook,” to each issue. Each will feature a DriDown redefines the until-now skeptical seasonal bird, beast and bloom to be found on the trails here in Washington, with thought of using down gear in the Northwest. photos and informative descriptions to help enhance your own trail experiences. DriDown employs a hydrophobic finish that 2013 also ushers in a couple of celebrations, which we'll be highlighting maintains the down's integrity while repelling through the year. First, WTA is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its trail moisture and maintaining loft. And by forgoing maintenance program. It's been 20 years since volunteers first picked up shovels a water-repellent membrane, DriDown items are and said, “Hey, let's go fix our trails.” We'll be taking a look back at 20 years exceptionally breathable, thus faster-drying. No worth of trail maintenance accomplishments, as well as a look forward for what more soggy down jackets and sleeping bags! might be possible in the next 20 years. In addition, trail guru Janice Van Cleve, So, down in the Northwest? YES! Now you can in partnership with WTA Crew Leader Pete Dewell, will be bringing us a back- enjoy the superior insulation and warmth of to-basics feature for each issue that highlights a specific part of trail building. down—and you can get it wet without worries! From turnpikes (in this issue), to drainages, puncheons and switchbacks, they'll share some of the technical details of how trails come about for all of us to enjoy. – Eli Boschetto The other celebration is the 100th anniversary of Washington state parks—the Sierra Designs third-oldest, and one of the largest, state park systems in the U.S. Each issue Gnar Lite Jacket we'll feature a new state park somewhere in Washington, noted for hiking, biking, camping, fishing or historical or cultural significance. You can join in by purchasing a Discover Pass (discoverpass.wa.gov ) and visiting a state park nearby or across the state—and discover that they're worth celebrating.

This year, following up the popular “Northwest Weekend” features, we're introducing “Epic Trails.” These new features will put the spotlight on Washington's long trails: the Wonderland (in this issue), William O. Douglas, Iron Horse, Loowit and more. Each will outline the entire course of the trail, and what's needed to hike it, fully or in bits and pieces. Plus, each will contain beta on permits, campsites and other useful information. All designed to help us get out and enjoy more trail time in the new year.

Cheers,

6 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org Trail Talk ou've probably got a few of your own—Green Trails maps. Y Washington Trails' editor, Eli Boschetto, recently spoke with President and CEO Alan Coburn on the origin of Green Trails, the introduction of Mapps, and what new products hikers can look forward to soon.

When did Green Trails first begin producing How would you describe GT Mapps and their maps and what was the influence? usefulness for smartphone-enabled hikers? The founder of Green Trails Inc., Walter Locke, Green Trails Mapps are apps for the iPhone published the first Green Trails maps in 1974. available through iTunes. An app for the Walt was an avid hiker who was frustrated with Android market is still in development. A GPS- the lack of current, accurate trail information. enabled iPhone will immediately show the user’s When USGS abandoned the 15-minute series location at the trailhead and track their every nationally, Walt decided to fill in the gap with move. The app was created to embrace the an updated 15-minute series of hiking maps incredible innovations technology has offered for Washington and Oregon. He also organized and to provide as much flexibility and access the now-famous Green Trails grid based on the as possible to our customers. The Green Trails national search-and-rescue mapping grid. Mapp is one of the Ten Essentials that you can add right at the trailhead! For example, if To date, how many maps has GT produced? you arrive at the trailhead only to realize that Green Trails publishes around 165 titles for you forgot your map, providing that there is Washington, Oregon, California, Arizona, Nevada 3G or 4G service in the area, our app would and British Columbia. There is even a special allow you to download the map you need Green Trails map of Central Park as well. A little and continue your day. More likely you could known fact: we use GPS teams that “ground- download in town or on your way to the trail, truth” content by surveying more than 1,000 at a coffee shop or a breakfast pit stop. We miles of trails a year. Last year, roughly half of wanted to provide our customers with every the mapping has been in Washington, although service available in this new age of technology Load your favorite hiking the recent forest fires delayed mapping efforts in while also reaching out to new generations map onto your iPhone some areas. of outdoor adventurers who might prefer an with a Green Trails Mapp. electronic map. Coming soon for Android. Why carry maps, and why GT maps? Where will GT be expanding its coverage? Hikers and backpackers should use maps to plan, execute and remember their adventures. Green Trails is expanding coverage in two Terrain is very important, i.e., switchbacks, ways. First, we're adding a layer of larger-scale elevation gain, slope facing, etc. This information coverage in areas our users have requested, e.g., Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, Snoqualmie “It's all about allows trip planners to understand what they the journey. The will likely encounter, evaluate their capabilities Pass, etc. These “S” or special series maps are and interests, adjust plans accordingly and configured to cover a slightly smaller area at people we meet, prepare themselves physically and mentally for a larger scale to show land features in greater the memories that the walk in the woods. Unlike most other maps, detail. These new “S” maps are printed on waterproof, tear-resistant materials. Second, we are evoked by such Green Trails maps were actually mapped by simple things, the crews with boots on the ground, and verified by are covering new or under-covered hiking areas the U.S. Forest Service or National Park Service wherever our customers or our staff find them. things we stand for prior to publication. In short, GT has actually Our upcoming 2013 releases include the Goat that are beyond our been there while others have not. Rocks, the William O. Douglas Wilderness and Alpine Lakes East in the Stuart Range.è own self-interests.” – Victor Huynh

WTA Member Profile: Victor Huynh Victor Huynh wants everyone to have an adventure—large or small—on one of Washington’s trails. Victor grew up playing on a mountain behind his parents’ house in Escondido, California. There, he and his siblings ran up and down the mountain in their back yard in the mornings before school. Today, Victor’s stomping grounds range from the craggy North Cascades to the trails outside Pullman, where he attended WSU. While the hiking landscape may look different from his childhood mountain, his wonder at the natural world—and his desire to share that feeling—hasn’t changed at all. Victor is more than a hiker, more than a WTA member and an advocate for trails. He is an ambassador for Washington’s wild places. “I hike with all different types of people with all different abilities. Co- workers who have never been, military members, seasoned hikers, mountaineers, families—pretty much anyone who has an inner thirst for adventure or just wants to unplug for a bit.”

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 7 Hiking News: Celebrating State Parks Washington State Parks 100 Years of History. Worthy of 100 More. By Lucy Shirley

kicks off the Washington State Park Centennial, celebrating 100 years and 117 state parks. Among the most beloved public lands in Washington, our state parks offer a multitude of recreation opportunities—from hiking and camping to boating and skiing—at favorite destinations such as Larrabee, Cape Disappointment, Steamboat Rock and Mount Spokane. Washington’s State Park initiative began in 1913 when the State Board of Park Commissioners was formed. The first acquisition, made in 1915 was Chuckanut State Park, later renamed Larrabee State Park (see Rich Mutch Featured State Park) when Bellingham resident Charles Larrabee donated 25 acres of waterfront property along the Whatcom-Skagit County lines.

In the early 1920s, with the demand for car-accessible park destinations, state park creation boomed. Twelve new parks were established in seven years, including Crawford and Fort Ward State Parks. But that progress ground to a halt in the late 1920s when government spending was drastically slashed, forcing most state parks to close. The state parks’ salvation was the establishment of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933 by President Franklin Roosevelt during the Great Depression. State parks were restored, and Washingtonians were put to work developing more parks, growing the number to 79 and introducing the parks at Deception Pass, Moran and Riverside, among many others.

Though World War II briefly halted park acquisition, demand peaked again after the war and funding for parks again increased. By the end of the 1950s, public lands in Washington consisted of 130 parks, and Cascadian Kim visitors across the state soared from 1.6 million at the beginning of the decade to 7 million by its end. During this time, historic military points along the coast were transferred to state possession and preserved as notable historic sites, including Forts Casey and Ebey on Whidbey Island, Forts Worden, Flagler and Townsend along Port Townsend Bay, and Fort Columbia at the mouth of the Columbia River.

Additionally during the 1950s, the groundwork was laid for the nation’s largest state-managed system of marine-accessible parks including moorage sites throughout the San Juan Islands—like Doe Island, Spencer Spit, Clark Island and Sucia Island—and the greater Puget Sound area, including Sequim Bay and Fay Bainbridge. These 48 moorage locations created access to some of Washington’s most remote island hiking opportunities, fishing locations and beaches. A final notable accomplishment for Washington State Parks during the 1950s was the establishment of Cape Disappointment State Park at the junction of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean—famously known as the place where Nathaniel Morse-Dayton Lewis and Clark’s journey met the Pacific in 1805.

8 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org Acquisition of public lands slowed throughout the following decade; however, considerable interest in developing winter recreational opportunities shaped the growth of state parks. Mount Spokane State Park has been a beloved skiing, dogsledding and snowshoeing area since the early 1950s, and Steamboat Rock State Park, established in 1972, offers skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing and ice climbing. Furthermore, a push for the preservation of public beaches along Pacific coastal lands instigated the Seashore Conservation Area, which stretches from the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Cape Disappointment and the Columbia River. By 2000, state park attendance reached 58 million annually and in 2003, the 90th anniversary of Washington State Parks was celebrated.

This year, the Washington State Parks Centennial recognizes one of the oldest state park systems in the nation and celebrates the preservation of 117 developed parks, 35 heritage sites, 13 interpretive centers and more Jayme Markham than 700 historic structures. Undoubtedly, Washington’s state parks have notably contributed to the rich history and natural legacy that make our state wonderful. This year, be sure to enjoy some of the 700-plus miles of trails found in our state parks, and continue to show your support for state parks to ensure that generations to come can celebrate the next centennial of Washington State Parks.è

Help support the preservation of Washington's state parks by purchasing a Discover Pass at discoverpass.wa.gov.

State Park Stats Washington has 117 state parks. Only 27 have volunteer support groups to help raise funds and maintain those parks.

Washington state parks have more than 700 miles of hiking trails. Ken Trimpe

There are thousands of campsites available at more than 90 parks. Take a hike at a state park this year and celebrate 100 years of preservation in some of Washington's most 17 state parks are on the ocean, with more than 32 miles of shoreline. scenic locations. Photos, clockwise from lower left: Palouse Falls in scabland country; Riverside in Spokane; State parks make up 2 percent of the 15.5 million acres of public land Lime Kiln on San Juan Island; Steamboat Rock in coulee in the state of Washington. country; Beacon Rock in the Columbia River Gorge.

ILS TRA ASS ON OC T IA Featured State Park: Larrabee G N T I I O

H N

S Larrabee State Park sits on Samish Bay, south of Bellingham, on 1.5 miles of ocean A W hERE shore, and was established in 1915 as Washington’s first state park. Larrabee began WORKED as a 25-acre parcel donated by Charles Larrabee. After another donation from the Larrabee family in 1937, the park grew by 1,500 acres. The Works Progress Administration played a key role in creating the park’s facilities, and by 1965 Larrabee had nearly 25,000 visitors annually. Today, Larrabee totals 2,683 acres of land, still with 1.5 miles of shoreline, but now also 85 campsites, 15 miles of hiking trails, 13 miles of bike trails—and is open year-round.

Larrabee offers access to tidepool exploring at Chuckanut and Samish Bays, and to trails leading to Lost and Fragrance Lakes on Chuckanut Mountain. The South Lost Lake Trail uses a former roadbed that branches from the Fragrance Lake Loop. The 5.5- mile Fragrance Lake Loop switchbacks through wooded cedars and Douglas-firs while climbing 1,000 feet to panoramic views of the San Juan Islands across Samish Bay.

In recent years, WTA has done significant work at this beloved state park, putting in more than 100 days of maintenance time. Work here has included maintenance on Bob Griffith nearly all of the 15 miles of hiking trails in the park, the rehabilitation effort on the South Lost Lake Trail, and large-scale improvements on the Fragrance Lake Loop.

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 9 WTA at Work

Sarah Rich Program Assistant [email protected]

Photos, L–R: Single-stringer footlog bridge, by Mike Morrison; Crews putting in a new footlog bridge on the Lone Fir Trail, by Ginger Sarver; Work crew laying stringers for a multi- stringer bridge on the Drake Creek Trail, by Joe Hofbeck. BRIDGING THE GAP When the Methow Valley Ranger District came into If that’s not possible, land managers look for a spot where significant funding in the 1970s and 1980s, it was a the banks are closest together so that they can build the golden era for trail improvements. In those years, heaps shortest bridge possible. Especially in the backcountry, it’s best to build bridges in sunny areas so that winter snow of bridges were constructed on trails throughout the loads will melt quicker and be less likely to weaken bridges Methow—big bridges and small bridges, simple bridges under the weight of a prolonged load. Land managers also and complex bridges, all to assist hikers in reaching take into account seasonal water levels and the bridge’s the deeper depths of the wilderness. ability to withstand high spring runoff. In the years that followed, those sturdy, brand-new baby Once they’ve determined where the bridge should go, land bridges grew into adolescents with lichen skin and mossy managers decide what materials are needed. Some bridges hair. Into the 1990s and 2000s, those middle-aged bridges are built with steel stringers, which need to be transported developed damp outsides and loose spikes. Now, some 30- by helicopter to the work site. Stringers are more commonly odd years later, those same bridges are all entering their made with trees from the surrounding forest. Stringers are elder years at the same time. Their wood rotting and bolts set on perpendicular sills, or platforms, on either side of the rusting, their weakening stringers sagging under their own bridge so that the sills, rather than the stringers, rest on the weight. The U.S. Forest Service is now faced with a dilemma: ground and are the first part of the bridge to rot. with dwindling federal funding, how will they be able to Bridge-builders not only have to hunt down the perfect replace all of these old and failing bridges at the same time? trees for their project, they also have to fell them, peel them, and transport them to the work site with griphoists. Bridge-Building: When, Where and What (Griphoists use self-gripping jaws and a wire-and-pulley system to move heavy objects.) All this happens before they To prevent accidents on broken bridges, land managers even lay a hand on any kind of actual bridge construction. inspect bridges regularly. When decking starts showing signs of decay, they have to decide whether the stringers will hold up for another life cycle of decking or whether to replace the Types of Bridges entire bridge. When the stringers, which bear the weight of There are many different kinds of bridges, but the the bridge, begin to rot, it’s time to rebuild. three styles most commonly found in the Methow are “In most cases the lack of a bridge will shrink the early- the puncheon, the footlog, and the multistringer bridge. season use on a trail when water flows are too high and In marshy areas with no rushing water, the puncheon fast to cross,” says Morgan Hartsock, trails manager in the usually suffices. Puncheons are low to the ground, with Methow District. “Bridge replacement is of the highest milled lumber serving as decking for these boardwalk-like concern in areas where there are no safe fording options.” structures. Puncheons have been put in place on the Lone Fir Trail in the Methow. Land managers take several considerations into account when a new bridge is in the works. If there is a nearby When the trail crosses a stream, footlogs are often the stream crossing that is easy to ford with the placement of a most efficient option. Like their name suggests, footlogs are few simple steppingstones, it might be easier to reroute the made of a single stringer log, flattened on top and straddling trail to a stream crossing than to build a whole new bridge. the banks. These narrow bridges are ideal for foot traffic

10 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org BRIDGING THE GAP because they take less effort to build than multistringer the Methow. In the past few years, WTA has built bridges bridges. Footlog bridges are found throughout the Methow’s on Canyon Creek, the East Fork of the Methow River and trail system; there are Robinson Creek, among many other trails. And in the next footlogs on the Lone Fir, couple of years, WTA will continue this crucial work on the “From peeling and skidding East Fork of the Methow West Fork of the Pasayten River as well as at Diamond Creek logs, to building cribs, and Canyon Creek Trails, on the Hidden Lakes Trail. among others. to setting stringers, to Bridge-building fits well with WTA’s volunteer culture. It is putting on the deck, WTA On trails open to stock a communal project that fosters camaraderie and satisfaction volunteers have assisted and cyclists, multiple in a very tangible, finished product. It’s impossible to build a stringers become necessary in nearly every aspect of bridge without working closely with other volunteers, and it’s to accommodate wider nearly impossible to work together without sharing stories bridge construction in the trail users and additional and sandwiches and well-worn jokes.è Methow. As long as we weight. These full-fledged Think you might be up to the task of helping rebuild a trail have a need for bridge bridges are the wide, high-above-the-water, often bridge in the Methow? Join a WTA work party or Volunteer replacement, we hope guardrailed structures that Vacation this summer. Visit wta.org/volunteer for more info. that WTA will continue to probably pop into your contribute to our efforts. head when you think of a ” bridge. Because you have — Morgan Hartsock to lay multiple stringers as Pitch in on a Methow Trails Manager well as attach decking, it takes about twice as long winter work party to build a multistringer bridge as it does to build a footlog. Last summer WTA Larrabee State Park: Enjoy views of Samish Bay while helping volunteers built a three-stringer bridge across Drake Creek on with general trail maintenance. Jan. 5, 6, 15, 16; Feb. 2, 3, 16, 17 the Hidden Lakes Trail. Mount Walker: Overlooking Hood Canal, pitch in on this trail Since they could afford to build more elaborate bridges at the foot of the Olympic Mountains. Jan. 13; Feb. 10 when funding was available 30 years ago, many of the McGarvey Park: Join in at this King County park near Renton bridges that the Methow district built in the 1970s and 1980s that encompasses Cedar Mountain. Jan 15–19 were multistringers. Now that funds are dwindling and these bridges need to be replaced, the Forest Service is opting for O'Grady Trail: Help out on trails at the Green River Natural more simple footlogs in places where they can get by. Area near Auburn. Jan. 29–Feb. 2; Feb. 5–9

What Is WTA Doing to Help? WTA has a variety of weekday and weekend work In these penny-pinching times, WTA is stepping in to parties through January and February. Find one help the Forest Service revamp its bridge infrastructure in near you. For info, visit wta.org/volunteer.

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 11 Engineering Trails

the soil and rock conditions, slope, and water courses along the way? What is the least arduous solution, and what are the capabilities of the volunteers? Where are the resources— rocks, gravel or wood—coming from? Above all, what methods are the safest? There’s a lot of planning that goes into trail maintenance before we even pick up a shovel.

The book Tread and Retread the Trails, by Pete Dewell, is a manual for trail building and maintenance. Pete is a WTA crew leader with more than 1,000 days of trail work to his credit. In 2011, he earned the top prize of a golden rock bar from WTA for his long dedication and outstanding achievements. As we begin to celebrate the 20th anniversary of WTA’s trail maintenance program, Pete has offered to share some of his trail building know-how to help us understand and appreciate the features and structures we see on the trails as we hike along.

By Janice Van Cleve Muddy and Wet Trails Trail building and maintenance is not just about Muddy and wet trails are caused by lack of adequate drainage or slope. Sometimes the existing drainage is digging dirt and hauling rocks. It takes a lot of clogged or is not deep, wide or large enough to carry analysis, backed by solid experience and training, water and debris from the trail. Leaves, twigs and mud regularly clog trail drainages. When horses and bicycles to determine where a new trail should go or what use trails, they tend to use the center of the trail, which needs to be fixed on an existing trail. While WTA causes berm buildup on the outslope side of the trail and is fortunate to have many experienced volunteers, depressions down the middle. Solutions for muddy trails include knocking down the outslope berm where practical we depend most on our crew leaders and and adjusting the angle of the tread toward the outslope. assistant crew leaders to size up each situation Cleaning out existing drains and constructing new ones and decide what work needs to be done. where water naturally collects is another solution. Where necessary and practical, removing the mud and duff from Many considerations go into trail-building analysis. For the muddy section and filling the area with rocks can resolve example, who will use the trail? Hikers only, or horses and the issue. If none of these are adequate, a turnpike with side bikes, too? Where is the trail supposed to go, and what are ditches may be required.

CRIB TURNPIKE Rebar stake ROCK TURNPIKE Sill log (optional)

Cedar stake

Crown trail within turnpike Mineral soil

Mineral soil Cedar stake Rock fill Rock fill NOTE: Embed rocks minimum 1/3 into soil

12 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org crews in action

Here, a WTA Volunteer Vacation crew works on one of the four new turnpikes on the Pacific Crest Trail in the Indian Heaven Wilderness. Having already laid the peeled parallel logs and deposited rocks and soil between them to form a mound, the crew now secures the turnpike structure by driving wooden stakes into the ground next to the logs. The soil on top of the turnpike is crowned to allow water to properly drain into the ditch next to the turnpike.

Photo by Ginger Sarver

Turnpikes A turnpike is a trail structure used to elevate the trail by the use of logs We extend our thanks to or rocks placed on both sides of the trail, with the middle filled with rocks WTA’s Corporate Partners and mineral soil. Sometimes, depending on the situational analysis, it is only necessary to build one side. The center of the trail in the turnpike Rainier - $25,000+ should be crowned (raised above the side portions of the trail) to shed water to the sides and off the trail.

Turnpikes are most often found in very wet or marshy areas and in low areas, where no drainage can be created. On occasion, they are used to raise the trail above roots and rocks that cannot be removed without undue effort, be removed in a reasonable manner, or where removal of Olympic - $10,000-$24,999 roots might damage trees or cause them to become unstable. Either end of a turnpike can be open or block-ended to hold the rocks and dirt inside. This decision, made by the land manager, is based on the availability of materials, but can also relate to trail grade and configuration. Turnpikes can be used in conjunction with crib steps where there is a transition, such as a level area between crib steps.

Where wood cribs are used, the side logs are secured either by wooden stakes or steel rebar. If the side logs are resting on a transverse log, called Cascade - $2,500-$9,999 a sill, then this arrangement should be secured to the side logs with spikes or rebar. Rock turnpikes should be embedded in the ground (at least one-third of the rock should be below grade) and be secured with outside rocks if necessary. In some cases, a culvert or French drain can be constructed under the turnpike to facilitate drainage. Where logs or rocks are not available, an alternative to a turnpike is to dig trenches on each side of the trail and use the material from those ditches (if it is mineral soil) to raise and crown the trail.

Washington Trails will be covering many more trail-building techniques in upcoming issues, such as puncheons, fords, tools, log-outs and more. If you’re interested in learning even more, and putting some of this Alpine - $1,000-$2,499 knowledge to work, talk to your local crew leader. The Mountaineers Books Tread and Retread the Trails by Pete Dewell can be purchased for only $10 MSR® and Therm-a-Rest® plus postage. Send an email to [email protected]. To find out how your company can support WTA’s work for trails, please call us at (206) 625-1367 or email [email protected]. OPPOSITE: Planning design of crib and rock turnpikes, noting stake placement and rock fill areas; illustration by Pete Dewell.

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 13 Action for Trails You can influence the future of hiking in Washington by joining Washington Trails Association in Olympia on February 7! Jonathan Guzzo Advocacy Director [email protected]

Olympia may not be the first place you think about when pondering hiking destinations, but planning a trip here can 2013 snapshot improve your upcoming trail adventures. This year WTA will be working hard to keep our Each year, WTA heads to Olympia with one mission: to support state’s trails open and accessible. Budget cuts have hikers by passing legislation that keeps our state lands open and resulted in layoffs and cutbacks at state parks. We hikable. That task is made more difficult by continuing budget will be working to keep these special places open shortfalls. But through hard work and the support of hikers like you, by supporting additional funding for recreation we’ve been able to preserve the trails and landscapes we all love. A to supplement the Discover Pass. We'll also be number of issues are playing out this legislative session. A probable advocating for a new pass that works at both the $3 billion budget shortfall will make our job more difficult, but we can state and federal trailheads, in the hope of providing expect to see movement on these issues: hikers a simple way to support all of the places they State Parks Budget recreate. These two legislative goals will not be easily achieved—we need hikers to support our efforts by The Discover Pass brought in $5 million less than expected joining us at Lobby Day. last year, putting state parks in peril once again. The agency has responded by raising its budget request from $18 million to No experience is necessary. We will provide $27 million. That’s significantly less than the $96 million that the you with all the tools you need for success. Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission received just a u Meet with your state representatives. few years ago. We’re supporting State Parks’ request this year in the hope that, as the economy recovers, our land management agencies u Hear about the future of public lands. can gain ground in the budget. u Meet other hikers who care about trails. Joint State-Federal Recreation Pass u See how policies are shaped in our state. The proliferation of access passes has created an extra layer of difficulty when we just want to go for a hike. We’ve heard some What: Hiker Lobby Day interest from the Legislature in a new pass that would combine national forests with state parks, Fish and Wildlife, and Department When: February 7, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. of Natural Resources, and we’re going to pursue this option in the coming session. We’re excited about this prospect, although passing a Where: Olympia, WA bill of this kind may take some time. Register at wta.org/lobbyday As usual, we won’t succeed without your help. Writing, calling and visiting your legislators is an important part of WTA’s Olympia advocacy. See how you can do more for Washington’s trails by participating in this year’s Hiker Lobby Day on February 7. We’d love to see you there!

$25M n Projected n Actual $20M

$15M

$10M

$5M

$0 State Parks DNR Fish & Wildlife

Fiscal Year 2012 (July 1 2011-June 30 2012) Discover Pass Revenue Projected vs. Actual Eli Boschetto

14 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org Youth & Families

Snowshoeing With Kids Krista Dooley Get out in the snow with the kids this winter! Snowshoeing is a Youth Programs Manager [email protected] great way to combine a child’s natural sense of exploration with a healthy dose of exercise and winter fun. Parents of kids two and under can hoist their youngsters into the baby backpack for a snowshoe stroll (dress them warmly!), and kids over five years old can strap on their own snowshoes and go. Some kids are naturals on snowshoes. Others have a hard time getting used to the sport and need some encouragement to keep Hike It: Gold Creek them motivated. If your child enjoys nature, turn snowshoeing into an opportunity to become a nature investigator. Bring a hand lens, Pond Snowshoe binoculars and a journal on your adventure, and search for signs of A great beginner snowshoe for kids and wildlife. What animals are active during the winter? Search for tracks, adults alike, this 2-mile trail circuits Gold feathers, scat and food caches in the snow. Creek Pond, providing picturesque views Other fun activities include relay races, building a snow creature, of Rampart Ridge and Kendall Peak. creating a snow fort and setting up an obstacle course. Snowballs and The loop destination is a good goal for older snow angels are also big hits with kids. kids, who may be able to finish the trail in an hour or so. Younger kids, however, might just Before purchasing snowshoes, rent them and test out the activity like to stomp around one side of the pond with your kids. REI and most ski resorts have snowshoe rentals. and return the way they came. Snowshoeing Remember to take your kid’s boots with you to ensure a good fit. is much more tiring than hiking, especially for You might also consider guided snowshoe treks offered by resorts or short legs. The best expectation is to simply agencies. Check wta.org/winter for winter recreation info. have fun in the snow no matter how far you go. The biggest obstacle on the route is a bridge at the north end of the pond, about halfway around. Snow piles up on the bridge, Winter Tips! leaving a narrow snow catwalk with no â Eat well before going out. â Dress in layers and adjust as needed. handrail. Turn around if uncomfortable, and for safety, stay off the ice. Gold Creek Sno- â Bring mittens and hand warmers. â Pack a thermos of hot cocoa or soup. Park is very popular; go early or try midweek. â Outfit kids with a whistle for safety. â Apply sunscreen. More Beginner Snowshoes DISTANCE 2 miles round trip Elevation Gain Minimal q Hurricane Hill – Olympic Nat'l Park q Wenatchee Crest – Blewett Pass Highest Elevation 2,600 feet q Big Four Ice Caves – Mtn. Loop Hwy q Upper River Run – Methow Valley Permit Sno-Park Pass q Keechelus Lake – Snoqualmie Pass q Paradise – Mount Rainier DIRECTIONS I-90 east to exit 54 (Hyak-Gold q Mount Spokane State Park – Spokane Creek). Turn left, then right onto Gold Creek Frontage Road (FR-4832). Drive about 1 mile to the gate and park. Mark your calendars! post-hike Sledding at Hyak Sno-Park This year WTA will be offering Youth Volunteer Vacations for high school students ages 14–18 and young adults ages 18–20. See a trip preview on January 25; Registration begins February 4. Don’t forget Spring Break! Join WTA on an Alternative Spring Break work party, with two weeks of day work parties for youth. Teens can volunteer for a single day or the entire week. Sign-up begins March 1 for Spring Break 2013: April 8–12 and April 15–19. Tushar Sharma Sign up at wta.org/volunteer Ann Gigli

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 15 This is the time of the year when hikers begin to yearn for the return of summer. Daylight hours are gradually increasing, and we feel the pull of the outdoors more strongly than ever. We also feel a little regret for the extra helpings at family gatherings, and perhaps we notice a little extra weight around the midsection. But summer is still a long way off, and we need to get outside.

By Holly Weiler

16 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org efore grabbing the snowshoes for another winter walk in Bthe woods, consider an alternative: Nordic skiing. For those who are new to the sport, classic skiing is easy to pick up after just a few outings. For those who are looking for a challenge, skate skiing provides a full-body workout that is hard to duplicate in any other outdoor activity. A basic Nordic setup is inexpensive, and there are rental options from a variety of outdoor retailers for those who would prefer to try it before they buy it. Once properly outfitted, your best bet is to head for one of the 40 Sno- Parks in Washington that are set aside for nonmotorized use. (The Sno-Parks outlined in this article focus on areas that provide grooming for Nordic skiing.) Additionally, there are a handful of privately operated Nordic areas across the state, and these areas have their own parking or permitting system. Remember that in addition to knowing which permit is required, it is crucial to know the trail basics before heading out.

Dogs are generally not allowed on groomed Nordic trails—however, there are exceptions. Some Nordic areas offer specific dog-friendly trails or trail hours, so call ahead if your outing will not be complete without your four-legged friend. Know that even if Fido is allowed, he may be required to remain on-leash. The best way to ski with a dog (when dogs are allowed) is by using a sled-dog harness and a bungee leash system: this is skijoring, and it’s a fast-growing winter sport in some locations. Second, snowshoes are not allowed on groomed Nordic trails. Many nonmotorized winter Sno-Park locations offer nearby snowshoe trails, but never switch to snow- shoes and set out across the groomed trails— it ruins the tracks and the skating deck. Finally, remember that the usual rules of the road apply here. Always keep skier-right when classic skiing, and try to remain right of middle while skating. Yield to downhill traffic—it’s hard to turn and stop quickly on Nordic skis! If you fall (and you will!), try to smooth out the spot after you get up again. A depression left in the snow will cause the next skier to fall there too.

Photos, from top: Friends enjoying the tracks in the Methow Valley, and the Rendezvous Hut system offers cozy accommodations for overnight ski adventures, by Brittany Manwill; Nordic skiers on the Methow Community Trail, linking Mazama and Winthrop, courtesy of Dave Chantler, MVSTA. SPREAD: Cruising Jack's Trail, one of the many trails available to Nordic and skate skiers in the Methow Valley Trail System, by Doug Diekema.

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 17 Snapshot Methow Valley The Methow Valley is a mecca for Nordic skiers. The trail system is divided into four areas: the Methow Valley Community Trail system (30K), the Sun Mountain trail system (54K), the Mazama Trails (33K) and the Rendezvous Cold Weather Trails (48K). Local ski events include the Backyard Ski Day on January 25, followed by the Methow Valley Pursuit on January 26–27, and the Tour of Photography the Methow on February 16. (mvsta.com) Chelan-Leavenworth Now that winter is here, it’s time to take out the winter The Echo Ridge Nordic area boasts more than 25 miles of groomed gear—snowshoes, cross-country skis, winter jacket, snow trails. The trail system is operated by the Chelan Ranger District with the pants and, of course, your camera. But before you head out, Lake Chelan Nordic Ski Club; Sno-Park permits and NW Forest Passes here are a few tips that can help take the chill out of capturing are not honored here. Visit during the Lake Chelan Winterfest and ski a winter wonderland-scape. the Echo-Loppet on January 12. Stop by the ski yurt on Saturdays in January and February for complimentary soup, thanks to the ski club! Choose the Right Gloves (lakechelannordic.org) While a pair of puffy, down-feather mittens may keep you Mount Baker warm on the mountain, they won’t be great for manipulating The Razor Hone Base Area trail at Salmon Ridge Sno-Park offers 30K of both the buttons on your camera. Try a thin pair of running gloves track skiing and a skate deck. The Nooksack Nordic Club recently received a or pipe gloves (a type of snowboarding glove) that you can grant to improve trail grooming here. (nooksacknordicskiclub.org) use alone or as a glove liner. Some gloves, like OR’s Sensor Stevens Pass gloves, have specialized material in the fingertips that lets you Chiwawa Sno-Park offers a 6.5K see-and-ski trail. Nearby Lake Wenatchee operate the touch screen of your camera or phone without Sno-Park has two areas: choose the north lot for a 5K trail with a skate deck, taking them off. or try the south lot for its 30K of track sking. Or visit the Nordic Center at Stevens Pass, which offers 28K of groomed trails. (stevenspass.com) Take Extra Hand Warmers and Batteries Greenwater-Yakima Hand warmers might sound obvious for cold-weather hiking, Mount Tahoma maintains 44K of groomed trails and offers three back- but don’t forget to take an extra set along with an extra country huts and one yurt. Bunks are available at only $15 per night and can camera battery. Freezing temperatures will drastically reduce be reserved ahead of time. Bring a sleeping bag and food; the huts contain the life of your camera’s battery (as well as your smartphone everything else you’ll need for a night on the ski trails. (skimtta.com) or any other battery-powered device). Just activate the hand South Cascades warmer and toss it in your pack with your gear to help keep Three Sno-Park areas in this region share a linked trail system that offers your batteries warm—but be sure that it isn’t in direct contact approximately 40 miles of Nordic trails. McClellan Meadows is the smallest with your electronics, to prevent overheating! of the three, Old Man, and Koshko is the largest. Spokane Beware of Fog This trail system offers 23 miles of doubletrack with a skating deck. The ski After a long day of trudging through the snow, you and your club is offering a new series of Nordic ski lessons (both classic and skate), camera gear will probably be pretty cold. When you get back and will continue to host the popular Nordic Kids program. Don’t miss the indoors, hold off on immediately taking your camera out of annual Langlauf 10K classic ski race (all ages and abilities) on February 10 or your pack. If you do, the lens, viewfinder, LCD screen and the the Selkirk Series (for adults) on February 23–24. (spokanenordic.org) internals of your camera will fog up. This moisture can cause electronics to fail and fungus to grow in your lens. Needless to say, this is not good. Keeping the camera sealed in your Sno-Park Permits for Nordic Ski Locations bag for a few hours will allow the camera to warm up slowly, Washington State Sno-Parks: Regular permit: $20 for a day reducing the chance of internal fogging. pass, $40 for a season pass, and $80 for a season pass with a special grooming permit. Required at: Chiwawa, Cabin Creek, Tips and photo by photographer Paul Raymaker Crystal Springs, Lake Wenatchee, Mount Spokane, Hyak, Lake Easton, and Nason Ridge.

For Sno-Parks inside state parks: a Discover Pass is required in addition to a day pass Sno-Park permit; no Discover Pass required when displaying an annual Sno-Park permit. Locations include: Crystal Springs, Easton Reload, Hyak, Fields Spring, Lake Easton, Lake Wenatchee, Mount Spokane and Mount Tahoma.

More info at: parks.wa.gov/ Danica Kaufman, MVSTA winter/nonmotorparks

18 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org Looking for an exciting experience this summer? Want to give back to the hiking trails you love?

In 2013, WTA is offering a variety of weeklong Volunteer Vacations, BCRTs and Youth Volunteer Vacations in both backcountry and frontcountry locations across the state. Join us for a weekend or a whole week of trail work, camaraderie, Join a Volunteer Vacation, BCRT or Youth Vacation. good food and fun. Trips preview on Jan. 25. Registration opens on Feb. 4! Don't miss out. Reserve your spot on Feb. 4! Sign up at wta.org/volunteer

Photo by Tushar Sharma. Inset photos by Lisa Black, Hal Pelton and Kathy Boggards. Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 19 In an effort to save this small town during the depressed years of the 1960s, Leavenworth transformed itself into a Bavarian- styled village, reminiscent of European tradition. Now, almost 50 years later, Leavenworth has established itself as a top year-round destination here in the Northwest. And while winter may limit access into the alpine backcountry, there is no shortage of other Leavenworth Æ recreation to be had by both families and outdoor-lovers alike. On the east side of the Central Cascades, Leavenworth can be reached from the west or east via U.S. Highway 2, or from the south or north via U.S. Highway 97. On your way into town from the east, or as a detour from any other direction, stop into the Liberty Orchards Store (1; libertyorchards.com) in nearby Cashmere and stock up on their tasty all-natural candies. Made from locally grown fruits and nuts, their Aplets and Cotlets have been a favorite since 1920. Between Cashmere and Leavenworth, spy the rocky outcroppings of Peshastin Pinnacles State Park (2; parks.wa.gov). Though closed in winter months, this popular rock climbing park has several hiking trails that offer views of surrounding orchards, the Wenatchee River Valley and Enchantments peaks.

Leavenworth (3; leavenworth.org) presents a variety of winter lodging options, suitable for both family vacations or intimate By Eli Boschetto getaways, accommodating all price ranges. The centrally located, family-friendly Bavarian Lodge (bavarianlodge.com) offers a At the doorstep of one of the most popular complimentary breakfast and has hot tubs and a heated swimming pool. For a real mountain getaway, consider the Sleeping Lady hiking destinations in Washington—the Mountain Resort (sleepinglady.com). These cozy, historical cabins Enchantments—the town of Leavenworth offer the ultimate in secluded relaxation, and amenities include spa, wine tasting and outdoor adventure packages. offers more than a warm meal and cozy bed to bookend a summer trek into the Alpine Lakes Once settled, you just need to decide on your style of outdoor play. If you’ve brought your snowshoes, numerous opportunities backcountry. Come winter, this charming are available to tromp through the snow, from short, easy trails village offers an abundance of snowy season to more strenuous ridge climbs. (Following last summer’s fires along the east side of the Cascades, many areas remain closed for recreation and relaxation. rehabilitation and evaluation, but many others are still open and accessible for winter fun.)

20 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org To stay close to town, simply head out for a stroll up Icicle Creek Road (4). Drive as far as the road allows, then strap on your snowshoes and start walking. The wide, level path is ideal for kids and beginners, and presents views of the steep-walled Icicle Creek Canyon. Go as near or far as you like. (At press time, the trail up Eightmile Creek remains closed from fire damage.) For more of a challenge, drive US-2 north to Chiwaukum Creek (5), about 11 miles from Leavenworth. This pleasant trail starts flat, then climbs steadily up the narrow valley amid ponderosa pine and fir forest. Views take in McCue Ridge and Big Jim Mountain. Where the trail splits 5 miles up, call it a day and head back down. (Be sure to check avalanche conditions at Chiwaukum Creek before venturing out.)

If you have multiple days for winter play, consider adding Wenatchee Ridge (6) to your itinerary. Farther north along US-2, divert onto SR-207 to Lake Wenatchee, then follow signs to the Sno-Park area on Little Wenatchee River Road. Little ones will delight in the wide, flat path through meadows and forest groves. To add a hearty climb and mountain views, continue up Forest Road 6502. The doubletrack switchbacks up to Wenatchee Ridge, offering views of Little Wenatchee Valley, Mount Mastiff and Round Mountain. If you’re craving speed and some icy wind in your face, spend a day skiing or snowboarding at the Stevens Pass Ski Resort (7; stevenspass.com). Celebrating its 75th anniversary, Stevens Pass offers powder- hounds more than 1,100 acres of riding terrain on 37 runs—from beginners’ runs like Easy Street, to advanced runs like Cloud Nine. After spending some time on the slopes, warm up and relax in one of the three mountain lodges.

After a long—or short—day in the snow, you’re probably ready for some good food and lively drink. Back in Leavenworth, you can choose to “go local” at any number of Bavarian-themed pubs and eateries, or stay traditional with a selection of pizza, burger and comfort-food establishments. For a lively dining experience, stop into Gustav’s Grill and Beer Garden (gustavsleavenworth.com). Get a table next to the fireplace and thaw out while sampling a selection of authentic German sausages, gourmet burgers and mouthwatering desserts. And be sure to quench your thirst with one of their signature Icicle Ales. If a cheesy pie is calling your name, grab a table at the Leavenworth Pizza Company. This after-hike favorite serves up a variety of classic pies and local concoctions using German sausage, sauerkraut and pesto chicken. Pizzas are big, so you’re bound to have leftovers for a late-night snack.

If you time your winter visit to Leavenworth just right, you’ll be able to take in some of the seasonal festivities as well. Mid-January, the town comes alive with the Bavarian Ice Fest (leavenworth.org; Jan. 19-20). Witness the snow sculpture competition, sample some flavor in the chili cook-off, participate in snowshoeing or dogsledding events, or try “smooshing,” an event involving team participation, 207 two-by-fours and lots of feet. If a quieter evening is more your style, try the LAKE WENATCHEE Icicle Ridge Winery (icicleridgewinery.com). Stroll through a snowy vineyard under the stars, then partake in a luxurious dinner and wine-tasting experience. 2 For a more rustic evening outing, join a Full Moon Ski or Snowshoe Party (8; skiplain.com), complete with bonfire and hot chocolate. Music lovers will enjoy TO EVERETT the Mission Ridge Mountain Music Festival (9; missionridge.com) featuring free performances by Northwest artists. And be sure to save some time to wander amid Leavenworth’s shops and galleries, offering Bavarian-styled gifts and treats, and showcasing local arts. 2 Whether you’re out for just a quick winter weekend or a longer vacation, Leavenworth is sure to enchant with its European styling and festive winter atmosphere. And even more outdoor opportunities are available, including LEAVENWORTH snowmobile tours, cross-country skiing and old-fashioned sleigh rides. Visit leavenworth.org and plan your own alpine retreat this winter! CASHMERE ALPINE LAKES OPPOSITE: Leavenworth comes alive every winter with festive decor, lighting and events WILDERNESS for all ages; photo by Jer Barnes. PHOTOS, FROM TOP: Ice sculpture at Leavenworth's 97 Bavarian Ice Fest and Gustav's Grill and Beer Garden, courtesy of Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce. Snowshoeing on Wenatchee Ridge, by David Hagen. MAP ILLUSTRATION: Kara Chin

Washington Trails | Jan+FebBLEWETT 2013 PASS | wta.org 21 Gear Closet , Who s Afraid of Winter!

Just because the temps drop and it's cold and wet outside—and maybe a little snowy—doesn't mean it's time to while away the winter indoors, waiting for spring to usher in a new hiking season. After all, that's what all that Polartec, Gore-Tex, Primaloft and DriDown are for. Here's a selection of trail-tested gear to help you get out and enjoy all the winter wonderlands the Northwest has to offer.

1. Bundle Up 3. Get a Grip The key to enjoyment on any outdoor winter endeavor is Now it's time to hit the trail. For bare ground, you're all set, but staying warm and dry. Just as with summer hiking, layering is when it's blanketed with snow, you'll want to add some tracks. For the key: wicking baselayers, insulating midlayers and a wind- hard-pack trail when snowshoes would be too much, slip on a pair and waterproof outer layer. Begin with the Col d'Lizard Tokay of STABILicers Lite Traction Cleats (5). Touted as "studded tires Microfiber Top (1). This super-wicking baselayer resists odor and for your boots," these lightweight traction devices fit over most any has a smooth surface to accommodate heavier midlayers. Next, hiking shoe. When the snow is deep and soft, then snowshoes are zip up Icebreaker's Kodiak Sweater. The superior insulation of the way to go, and Atlas and Tubbs have offerings for the entire Realfleece Nano will not only keep you warm, but sheds dirt and family, for short outings to long winter treks. Beginners can easily moisture as well. Now top it off with an outer shell. For active strap on a pair of Tubbs Xplore Snowshoes and get right to it winter outings, Rab's Scimitar Jacket and Pants (2) allows with QuickPull bindings and recreation-enhanced crampon. Winter complete freedom of movement while being extremely breathable trekkers will like the Atlas 8-Series Snowshoes with Free-Rotating and water-repellent. For an insulating outer layer, the First Ascent Suspension and hassle-free Strapp bindings. Outfit the whole BC Microtherm Down Jacket is fully waterproof and weather- family with Atlas Spark (6) and Atlas Echo Snowshoes for youth, sealed to keep the heat in and the elements out. or the fun Tubbs Snowflake Snowshoe for the little tykes. 2. Treat the Feet 4. Now Get Out There's nothing that can dampen a winter hiking trip faster Layered up and insulated—check. Warm feet and dry boots— than cold, wet feet—so this is where you don't want to skimp. check. Winter trail traction devices to get you where you want to A WT gear guide selection, the Vasque Snow Junkie Winter go—check. Now you just need your own little winter cabin in the Boot, featuring a waterproof upper, woods—and we've got you covered there too. For a lightweight Thinsulate insulation and fleece lining winter trail home, pack in the Brooks Range Invasion Tent. This will ensure warm, dry feet down any 4-season tunnel tent will keep you cozy through those chilly snowy trail. For her, the Lowa Solden nights. For a bombproof shelter able to withstand any Northwest GTX (3) have a Gore-Tex lining, fleece winter endeavor, hunker down in the Nemo Alti Storm Tent (7). insulation and a sure-grip outsole— With ample interior and vestibule space, this all-season beauty will perfect for snowy hiking, or after-hike keep you, and your gear, protected from the elements. And keep apres. Keep the feet extra-warm with yourself warm overnight with a Sierra Designs BTU Sleeping Bag Lorpen Polartec Trekking Socks (8) and Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Mattress. The waterproof, (4), designed for maximum warmth 800-fill, Drizone BTU Bag features a fitted hood to keep warmth in, in minimal temps. Or, slip into a pair while the lightweight, yet comfy-thick XTherm Mattress reflects of Heat Holders Thermal Socks, heat to keep you comfortable through the night. made of insulating yarn with superior wicking capabilities to keep feet dry Get more info on all of these items and even more and comfortable. winter gear at wta.org/gearguide.

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22 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org How-To Meet the Gear Team! Deodorize This year, Washington Trails is introducing a brand-new gear review team. They're Insoles and hiking pros and gear gurus with thousands of trail miles under their pack straps and an affinity for the perfect gear to get them where they want to go. Boot Liners Look for their reviews in upcoming issues, and get yourself geared up to hit the trails! It’s no secret that boots can get a bit funky after heavy use. Deodorizing is easy when you understand what to do and how it works. You’ll Lynette Alber is a hiking gear aficionada. If you hiked want to treat the funk so it goes away, not cover 55,000 vertical feet over 7 months with her, you know she adores her Osprey Kestrel 38 pack. If you backpacked the it up; do this with MiraZyme by Gear Aid. Northern Loop Trail together, you experienced an amazing It’s an all-natural, enzyme-based deodorizer trip. Which lucky gear tagged along? Her MSR WhisperLite that’s easy to use. Just follow these steps: gazed at gleaming glaciers and beheld bodacious bears at Yellowstone Cliffs. Her SteriPEN Adventurer marveled at 1) Remove the insoles or liners and loosen the marmots in Berkeley Park. Plus, her beloved Lowa Renegade laces as much as possible to allow the interior boots saw it all, judged to be her finest hiking footwear! fabric to air out. Favorite hike: Northern Loop Trail, Mount Rainier Favorite piece of gear: Osprey Ariel 65 Backpack 2) Add 1 tsp. MiraZyme for every 2 gallons of cold or warm water. Soak articles.

3) Once fully saturated, remove articles from Jaime Hale started day hiking in the coastal mountains of Oregon and Alaska. Since then, she’s progressed to ever solution and allow to fully air dry. Do not rinse. more intensive outdoor adventures. Most recently, she’s taken up hiking some of Washington’s bigger mountains Why it works: While drying, the enzymes and is working on summiting all of Washington’s 100 highest attack the bacteria that causes the odor. The peaks. She’s also hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and longer the gear is wet, the longer the enzymes last summer completed the entire Wonderland Trail. Her can work—so remember not to force-dry the favorite gear depends on her trail and weather situation, but item. Once dry, those insoles and liners will be she always favors merino wool and clean, dry socks. as good as new! Favorite hike: Wonderland Trail Favorite piece of gear: Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 Tent

Kristen Sapowicz is an East Coast native whose love for hiking began when she joined her college outdoors club. For her, one of the best parts about hikes is gearing up for them. Gift lists that used to include shoes and sweaters are now wish lists of trekking poles, poly-pro shirts and rain gaiters. Currently, her favorite piece of gear is her Nikon DSLR camera, which helps her capture shots for Washington Trails. When she's not hitting the trail or taking pictures, Kristen is a website designer for a local start-up company. 1) Favorite hike: Burroughs Mountain, Mount Rainier Favorite piece of gear: Vasque Breeze hiking boots

John SoltyS is a family guy, hiker and computer nerd who's still trying to figure out how to make his love of the outdoors pay the bills. He grew up in the Northwest but didn't start hiking until 2000, when he grew tired of walking his dog around the block every night and finally ventured into the wilderness. Three kids and two dogs later, he's lucky enough to spend about 100 days each year on the trails. John and his family hike, fly-fish, snowshoe and climb 2) mountains, but they don't rock climb—yet. Favorite hike: Sunrise area, Mount Rainier How-To tip courtesy of Gear Aid, of Bellingham, WA. Favorite piece of gear: Injinji Toe Socks Gear Aid produces a variety of cleaning and repair products for outdoor gear enthusiasts to help prolong the lives of their gear and avoid costly replacements. Find The new team is already testing and reviewing the latest in outdoor gear and apparel to bring Gear Aid products at your favorite outdoor retailer, or you the best recommendations to help you get the most out of your outdoor experiences. If you online at gearaid.com. have a question for the team, send an email to [email protected].

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 23 Trail Mix

– Muir

With more than 20,000 miles spent on the trail—15,000 of those miles hiked right here in Washington—I’ve seen a lot of spectacular natural places. I’ve learned a lot too—about nature, humanity and myself. Here are just a few things I’ve learned along the trail over the years.

It is the I cherish solitude but often welcome company when deep in the trail less backcountry. I don’t mind sharing the trail with hundreds who walk softly, but shudder at sharing it with one clod. taken that oft I’ve hiked in the Yukon, Patagonia, Andes and Pyrenees, yet some of the rewards most stunning scenery is right in my backyard, the Cascades. There is me the beauty everywhere in the natural world—I've seen it in Mississippi swamps greatest. and along the AT in New Jersey. In cities I see ; in nature I see order. The most ecologically diverse places aren’t usually the most visually stunning. Ecosystems can be fragile, yet nature can be resilient.

Hiking is a great stress release, even when facing a stressful deadline when writing about hiking. Nature heals, but can also be cruel; I faced my mortality in a wildfire in the Cascades and during an electrical storm on Mount Shasta.

I’ve encountered grizzlies and unleashed, aggressive dogs on the trail—the latter concerning me more. Societal ills that I retreat from on the trail (crime, litter, vandalism) sadly occasionally follow.

I can always pack lighter, but choose comfort and preparedness over streamlining. Not all backcountry water sources need to be filtered, but all it takes is one miscalculation to contract giardiasis. Burning toilet paper is not a smart move in a dry forest.

There are motorcyclists who cherish the land, and hikers who could care less. Not all opponents of parks and wilderness are motorized recreationists and extractive industry folks; they have allies in the hiking and mountain biking community as well. Funding for our parks and trails continuously dwindles, while recreational demands escalate. Supporters of parks and wild places come from all political backgrounds and walks of life—detractors too. Balancing preservation and access in our public lands is no easy act.

The most polarizing topics in the hiking community are not politics and religion, but dogs, guns and mountain bikes. It’s a paradox to leave a light carbon footprint when we drive, boat and fly to our parks and trails. It’s hard bonding young people to nature when they’re increasingly growing up urban and . Our country is growing more ethnically diverse, but it’s not so evident on the trail. While I can easily cover 20 miles on the trail in a day, many folks can’t cover one thanks to our obesity epidemic.

Ticks repulse me and fascinate me at the same time. There are lots of little yellow birds and pretty flowers I need to become more familiar with; My soul birds are the oystercatcher and loon—what does that say about me?

Trail users before me, First Peoples, explorers and homesteaders continue to enlighten me.

– Thoreau Every time I take to the trail, I learn something new. How about you? What have you learned? Share what you've learned on the trail by visiting WTA's Facebook page: facebook.com/washingtontrails

The comments and opinions expressed by guidebook author Craig Romano are his own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Washington Trails Association. 24 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org The Northwest forests are teeming with life—many of which may go overlooked or unseen. On your next hike, look out for the little things and discover something Text and photos by Tami Asars new on your favorite trails. Bird: Varied Thrush

If you set out for a forested hike this­ winter, you may see what you think are American robins. Before you dance a little jig that spring is just around the corner, take a closer look. What you’re seeing is likely a varied thrush. While similar in size and coloration to the American robin, varied thrush primarily live deep in forest canopies, have an orange band over the eye and a dark horizontal band on their rust-colored chest. Their simple, single note often echoes through the wet understory, and many a hiker has been unknowingly serenaded by one of these small, feathered creatures. Look for this forest friend year-round on trails throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Douglas Squirrel Have you ever been scolded by a squirrel when hiking? If so, the chattering tantrum was most likely the work of a rust-bellied Douglas squirrel upset about you hiking too close to its nest or food supply. Native to the Northwest, the Douglas squirrel is active year-round and spends its winter sleeping in tree holes and eating stored pinecones. Mating occurs in February and March, and the gestation of four weeks gives way to four to six tiny kits. Their scurrying feet and noisy vocals are part of what makes our forest come alive and a delight to young and old hikers alike. Look for Douglas squirrels in old-growth or second-growth coniferous forests throughout the Northwest.

Tall Oregon Grape Hillsides of it abound! Oregon grape is found in two varieties: one which stays as an evergreen ground cover, and its higher sibling (up to 8 feet, hence the name), the tall Oregon grape. Found along trailsides in a wide variety of soils, tall Oregon grape is easily identified by its holly-like leaves and its yellow spring flowers. In early fall, it produces dark blue berries that are irresistible to flitting forest birds, such as rufous-sided towhees, dark-eyed juncos, cedar waxwings and woodpeckers. The berries are a culinary delight for humans as well. Although they’re puckeringly tart directly from the vine, they can be cooked into a jelly with sugar, that’s delightful on warm scones.

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 25 Hike It!

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Winter hiking and snowshoeing in the Northwest can be just as enjoyable as any other time of year— only now, the landscapes are transformed into Where to findEasy Winter Hikes sparkling scenes of winter white. It's cold outside. It's probably damp and soggy, and there's likely snow Choose your destination wisely. Popular summer covering your favorite trails. That's no excuse not to get out and get some hikes can be avalanche hot spots in winter. Select a route trail time this winter—that's what all that Polartec and Gore-Tex is for! Here that is designated for snowshoeing. are 10 effortless trails to help keep you active until warmer days arrive. Check avalanche conditions. Before heading out 1 Baker Lake: North Cascades; 14 mi. day hike or backpack on a snowy trail, check conditions with The NW Weather 2 North Centennial Trail: Puget Sound; 4 mi. day hike and Avalanche Center at nwac.us or 206-526-6677. 3 Fidalgo Head Loop: Puget Sound; 4 mi. day hike Share your hike itinerary. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. 4 Soaring Eagle Trail: Issaquah Alps; 4.2 mi. day hike 5 Striped Peak: Olympic Peninsula; 5 mi. day hike Pack the Ten Essentials. Also include an emergency shelter or sleeping bag, lots of dry clothing layers, a 6 Leadbetter Point: Willapa Wildlife Refuge; 10.6 mi. beach stroll portable shovel and an avalanche beacon.

7 Pond Loop: Slavin Conservation Area; 3.3 mi. day hike Know your navigation skills. It is much easier to 8 South White Bluffs: Hanford Reach; 7 mi. day hike get lost in winter when landmarks are obscured by snow. Consider taking a wilderness navigation course. 9 Snow Mountain Ranch: Yakima; 9 mi. day hike or snowshoe 10 Lacamas Park: Columbia River Gorge; 4.5 mi. day hike Safety Notice Neither Washington Trails magazine, the Wash- ington Trails Association, nor their personnel or agents accept any WEB BONUS! liability for accidents or injuries in connection with articles, trail or Due to spacing limitations in this issue with the featured presentation of the road reports published in Washington Trails magazine. The reports provide updated information of interest to the region’s trail users; Northwest Exposure photo contest, we were unable to present the Hike It section in readers are cautioned to supplement the reports with detailed the normal format. Visit wta.org/bonushikes for all of these hikes in the full format, trail maps and other sources of information when planning a trip. with additional information and driving directions as downloadable PDF files! Additionally, readers should be aware that reported conditions may change, that there may be errors in the reports, and that certain hazards are inherent in backcountry travel.

26 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org Baker Lake North Cascades Old-growth forests, views of Mount Baker, turbulent tributaries and a deep blue lake—what's not to love? The 14-mile Baker Lake Trail offers a remarkable wilderness experience for hikers of all ages and abilities, from short day hikes to overnight backpacks. And thanks to the trail’s low elevation, it is accessible even when most other Cascadian trails are buried under snow.

The trail flanks the eastern edge of Baker Lake, created by the 1959 damming of Baker River. Burnt cedar snags offer evidence of Mount Baker's 1843 eruption. Mushrooms dot the forest floor, and towering fir trees draped with old man’s beard provide shelter from the drizzly mist that accompanies most winter hikes in the Northwest.

Several campgrounds along the trail provide temporary homesteads for backpackers and logical turnaround points for day hikers, making the Baker Lake Trail a marvelous wilderness escape in winter, or any time of year.

Hike by Lindsay Leffelman; Photo by Dave Nielsen

RAILS AS N T SO TO C G IA Mileage 14 miles one way Map Green Trails: N T I I O Lake Shannon 46

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S Elevation Gain Up to 500 feet A W RKED hERE Highest Elevation 1,000 feet Permit NW Forest Pass WO More Info wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/baker-lake

north centennial trail Puget Sound Local, national and world histories intersect on this peaceful farm north of Arlington. This newly completed section of the popular Centennial Trail runs from Bryant to the Skagit County line, and is a 4-mile link in the 29-mile trail. The Centennial Trail is constructed on the original railway right-of-way built north of Snohomish by the Seattle, Lake Shore, and Eastern Railroad in 1889.

Hikers, bikers, joggers and equestrians will enjoy sweeping views of the Nakashima Farm’s pastures as they descend from the barn to the trail. The paved portion of the trail turns south and begins its gentle meander through cedar and spruce wetlands and second-growth forest before climbing along the banks of Pilchuck Creek. Lovely views both up- and downstream can be had, and off to the west is a peek of snow- capped mountains. The trail crosses SR 9 just before the Bryant Trailhead and continues on to Arlington and all points south.

To the north, views of the barn and farm pasture can be had through the grand cottonwoods that line the grade.

Hike and photo by Dawn Erickson

Mileage 4 miles one way Map Snohomish County Centennial Trail Elevation Gain 50 feet Highest Elevation 171 feet Permit None More Info www1.co.snohomish.wa.us/departments/parks Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 27 FIDALGO head LOOP Puget Sound An easy wildlife-spotting hike that can be done year- round, with views of the San Juan Islands. Located in Washington Park in Anacortes, this 220-acre park offers great ocean views. From the trailhead near the restrooms, start downhill and meet up with the small, one- lane loop road that travels through the park. The trail parallels the road, crosses over for some portions and connects with other trails. All of these trails can be hiked in one day.

By hiking a combination of the road and trails you'll get the best views of the Sound and the San Juan Islands as well as the ferries heading out. There are always lots of kayakers paddling offshore, and if you watch closely you can see bald eagles, great blue herons, seals and, if you're lucky, maybe a killer whale. The hike to Green Point Trail offers particularly good views, and from the top of the loop, you can take in panoramas of Burrows Island, Burrows Pass and Flounder Bay. On the south side of the peninsula, a variety of side trails lead to the park's campground and the water's edge.

Hike and photo by Mike Morrison

Mileage 4 miles round trip Map Green Trails: Deception Pass 41S Elevation Gain Up to 300 feet Highest Elevation 300 feet Permit None More Info cityofanacortes.org/parks/parks.htm

SOARING EAGLE trail Issaquah Alps Explore this 600-acre urban forest on a network of well- signed trails, just 30 minutes from Seattle. Like many regional trail systems, Soaring Eagle is a cobweb of connected trails that cover most of the park. To prevent confusion, each of the 28 trail intersections is signed and most have a map letting you know where you are. Although housing developments are initially visible, they quickly fade into the trees as you wander deep into the park. The grade is gentle and the trails are well maintained, letting you enjoy the surroundings. Birds are plentiful and fill the trees with constant movement. (Be aware of territorial owls.) Widely spaced stands of alder and maple give way to densely packed swaths of fir and hemlock, which in turn yield to sections of marshy wetlands.

This is a popular location for biking and trail running, so be prepared to share the trails. The main Pipeline Trail is wide and flat, ideal for the whole family, stroller and all. If you’re looking for new places to bring the dog, this is a good option as well.

Hike and photo by Nate and Jer Barnes

RAILS AS N T SO TO C 4.2 miles round trip Soaring Eagle G IA Mileage Map N T I I O Regional Park H N 200 feet

S Elevation Gain A W RKED hERE Highest Elevation 520 feet Permit None WO More Info kingcounty.gov/recreation/parks

28 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org striped peak Olympic Peninsula Visit a park full of coastal scenery, forests, rocky bluffs, tidepools, and a hearty climb to a 1,166-foot summit. Clallam County’s 196-acre Salt Creek Recreation Area offers a little bit of something for everyone—playgrounds and play fields, hiking and biking trails, wildlife viewing, remnants from WWII-era Camp Hayden, year-round camping and panoramic views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

The Striped Peak Trail begins just past the park’s entrance booth. Start out among fir and maple, traveling along a well- constructed gravel path. Into the forest, the trail wanders through towering cedar, fir and hemlock while ascending to a viewpoint. Peer 200 feet below to a remote and isolated cove that is accessible by a short and steep side trail.

After crossing a few creeks, the trail turns, switchbacks and meets the road; continue to the summit. If skies are clear, enjoy expansive views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Canada’s Vancouver Island and the Cascade Mountains.

Hike and photo by Kelsie Donleycott

Mileage 5 miles round trip Map Green Trails: Joyce 102 Elevation Gain 850 feet Highest Elevation 1,166 feet Permit None More Info wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/striped-peak

leadbetter point Willapa Bay Enjoy a flat, sandy stroll to the mouth of Willapa Bay on the Long Beach Peninsula. Leadbetter Point lies at the northern tip of the Long Beach Peninsula. The peaceful and often deserted trails run along the Willapa Bay shoreline for more than 10 miles, passing through maritime forests, mudflats, and grassy sand dunes.

Work your way through lowland shrubs and forest and head to the beach. Continue along the beach toward Leadbetter Point, and pay attention to wildlife. Black-tailed deer and raccoons are prevalent, but the main attraction is bird watching. Long Beach Peninsula is right in the path of the Pacific Flyway, the main thoroughfare for migrating waterfowl. More than 200 different avian species are often spotted in the area.

Leadbetter Point is constantly changing as the sand dunes shift or erode away. Sometimes you can continue beyond Leadbetter Point, and sometimes the trails are completely flooded. Go as far as the trail will let you, turn around, and just enjoy the peace and quiet of wintertime Long Beach.

Hike by Brittany Manwill; Photo by Rick Parvey

Mileage 10.6 miles round trip Map USGS Oysterville and North Cove Elevation Gain 35 feet Highest Elevation 50 feet Permit $5 day-use pass More Info fws.gov/willapa

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 29 slavin POND LOOP Spokane With more than 600 acres of rolling fields, pine-forested buttes and wetlands, the Slavin Conservation Area provides plenty of room to stretch the legs this winter. A link in the migratory flyway for many birds, the Slavin Conservation Area is a great place for hikers to spot ducks, geese and owls on their winter forays. Numerous user-paths wind through these Eastern Washington woods, which are popular with equestrians and dog-walkers as well as hikers.

Depart from the parking area and crest a small wooded knoll before dropping to the edge of a large pond. Walk alongside sedges at the edge of the pond to a ponderosa-dotted rock knob, a perfect picnic spot. Continue through more ponderosa, cross a manmade earthen dam and re-enter the trees. As the trail winds among woods, exposed basalt rock and bunch grass, it will occasionally fork; keep right, on the most well-trod path. Accompanied by the honking of ducks, geese and swans, hikers will enjoy peekaboo views of the pond on this effortless outing. Hike and photo by Aaron Theisen

Mileage 3.3 miles round trip Map USGS Quad: Spokane SW Elevation Gain 246 feet Permit None Highest Elevation 2,341 feet More Info spokanecounty.org/parks

South White Bluffs Hanford Reach Take in views of badlands, banded, sedimentary bluffs and the last free-flowing stretch of the Columbia River. The trailhead sits atop the bluffs and has a wonderful view of the entire White Bluffs–Hanford Reach area. Watch for ripple and cross-bedding patterns in the gray Ringold Formation (ancient river and lakebed sediments that make up the White Bluffs) beside the roadway. As you hike along, notice that these bluffs are actually the ridge on the southwest side of the Great Valley. Descend to the river, below the cliffs; this makes a great lunch spot.

For further exploring, continue across the road to a faint trail leading to the obvious sandstone pillar above the river. The area around the pillar is very hummocky (evidence of an ancient landslide), with many game trails providing lots of interesting terrain to explore. When you've had your fill, make your way back to the old highway and climb the final stretch back to the trailhead, and the conclusion of a pleasantly scenic winter walk in the shrub-steppe. Hike and photo by David Hagen

Mileage 6–7 miles round trip Map DNR: Priest Rapids Elevation Gain 600 feet Permit None Highest Elevation 900 feet More Info wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/white-bluffs-south 30 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org SNOW MOUNTAIN RANCH Yakima A flat riparian ramble, or a workout to a scenic summit, Snow Mountain Ranch is a winter-walk wonderland. Snow Mountain Ranch offers a variety of winter walks on a network of looping trails. Relics of the old cattle ranch still remind hikers of the past on this 1,800-acre property. The ranch was home to Elon and Joan Gilbert, friends of Justice William O. Douglas. Douglas would often stop to visit on his way into the Cascades from his home in Yakima.

History is just one of many attractions at Snow Mountain Ranch. Hike the riparian areas for the chance to glimpse great horned owls. Train binoculars on the local pond for sightings of a variety of ducks. The lowland fields provide excellent hunting grounds for red-tailed hawks, sharp-shinned hawks and northern harriers. Resident elk wander in and out, and deer and coyote signs are apparent on all trails. Gain enough elevation on Cowiche Mountain, and to the west are views of a large elk feeding station managed by WDFW, and views of Mount Adams, Mount Rainier and nearby Yakima. Hike and photo by Kimberly Craig

Mileage Up to 9 miles round trip Map Visit website for PDF Elevation Gain 1,140 feet Permit None Highest Elevation 3,376 feet More Info cowichecanyon.org

LACAMAS PARK Columbia River Gorge An easy escape to flowing streams, waterfalls, woodsy surroundings and a no-nonsense path, ideal for a quick escape into nature in any winter conditions. From the Third Avenue trailhead in Camas, the path parallels Lacamas Creek, often busy with great blue herons, standing like statues hunting their next meal. The path is wide and graveled with some rolling ups and downs as it works its way to Lower Falls. Watch for mushrooms in the forest duff.

Follow the trail, crossing a bridge and wandering down an old gravel road, taking time to explore the small side routes. While the main loop trail is open to bikes, the side trails are hiker- only and clearly marked. Traverse around the steep shores of Round Lake, then continue down the path to peer down at The Potholes. The pools and rocks in this area showcase an interesting geological feature in the creekbed's lava rock. Circle back through lush cedar forest to the bridge at Lower Falls, enjoying a pleasant stroll around the other side of the lake back to where you started. Hike by Ashley Morrison; Photo by Eli Boschetto

Mileage 4.5 miles round trip Map USGS Quad: Camas Elevation Gain 350 feet Permit None Highest Elevation 400 feet More Info cityofvancouver.us/parks-recreation Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 31 Cowlitz Divide, by Tami Asars

By Tami Asars

hrough a wispy-clouded late August sky I set out to tackle the Wonderland—again. Permit Tip: Get your permit Looping the many glaciers, river valleys and high alpine meadows of Rainier’s back- reservation requests in between country was no stranger to me. I’d hiked the beckoning beauty so many times, I’d nearly March 15 and April 1 for the best lost count. This time, I’d set out towing camera gear in an effort to capture some photos for odds of getting your perfect my book, Hiking the Wonderland Trail. As I walked, I silently wondered what it was about itinerary. For best results, create this place that made it so enchanting for me, and for the thousands that hike it each year. three different itinerary choices; vary the starting date, or start Perhaps the best way to describe the Wonderland Trail is “magical.” It’s as if a surreal spell has been cast upon the trail’s scenery, immersing hikers in rich and powerful beauty with nearly from different trailheads. When every step and turn. Fragrant flowered meadows, angry and disturbed river valleys, abundant submitting your reservation wildlife, historic backcountry patrol cabins and two Indiana Jones-style suspension bridges—all request, indicate your choices set to the backdrop of the highest volcano in Washington state and the largest single-peak clearly on the form. glacier system in the contiguous U.S. But it’s more than a pretty postcard.

The flip side of the Wonderland’s spell could be the daily challenge of elevation gains and losses, ascending and descending 22,000 feet of rugged country. Fortunately, the eye candy of Mount Rainier’s backcountry soothes the aches and pains and more than makes up for the demanding days with natural artistry and allure.

Those who have hiked it can attest that being nose to nose with such a behemoth mountain for consecutive days leaves you feeling distinctly euphoric. The mountain folds you into its strong trance and enraptures you with unique natural features. How rare to stand at melting toes of giant rivers of ice and feel the blast of cold air and nature’s strength. What wonder to encounter creatures like the hoary marmots near Summerland, the black bears of Mystic Lake, the mountain goats near the Panhandle Gap and the Clark’s nutcrackers and golden-mantled ground squirrels that wink at you when they hear the rustle of a food bag. All of this followed by ghost trees so large that you can stand tall inside their great roots. Magic indeed!

From the “wow, look at that!” moments to the solitude of quiet breaks in colorful meadows, the Wonderland is one of the most beloved and highly recommended trails in the country. Even Klapatche Park, after hiking it nine times, I am still finding magic and comfort in the large arms of The Mountain. by Doug Diekema

7,000’ Klapatche Park Mystic Lake Summerland Mowich Lake 6,000’ Devil's Dream Sunrise 5,000’ Indian Bar 4,000’ Golden Lakes 3,000’ Longmire Ipsut Creek Nickel Creek Paradise River 2,000’ 0 mi. 10 mi. 20 mi. 30 mi. 40 mi. 50 mi. 60 mi. 70 mi. 80 mi. 90 mi. 93 mi.

32 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org Try one of these smaller sections as a day hike or weekend backpack to get into some of the best Bits & Pieces wilderness Mount Rainier has to offer. Or, complete the entire circuit over multiple trips.

Janelle Walker Tami Asars Tami Asars

Day Hike: Summerland Backpack: Klapatche Park Section Hike: The Mountain 8.6 miles; elevation gain 1,950’ 21.4 miles; elevation gain 3,300’ 34, 22, 35 miles; elevation gain varies

Park at the Fryingpan Creek Trailhead near Experience one of the best wilderness Split the Wonderland into bite-size pieces the White River entrance. The trail gently camps on the Wonderland by sneaking and tackle it over several seasons. First, do rolls through old-growth forest below the in the back way! From the end of the the challenging west side, from Longmire giant shoulders of Goat Island Mountain. Westside Road, walk the road-turned- to Mowich Lake (34 miles). You'll visit the Cross Fryingpan Creek and switchback up trail for 8 miles to the St. Andrews Creek wildflower meadows of Indian Henry’s to Summerland’s wide meadows. Views Trailhead. From there, it’s a 2.6-mile jaunt Hunting Grounds and Sunset Park’s of Mount Rainier and Little Tahoma are to connect to the Wonderland and just a Golden Lakes. Next, hike Mowich Lake breathtaking as marmots scurry about short distance farther to Klapatche Park. to the Sunrise Visitor Center (22 miles). underfoot. To adventure even farther, While there, get the Wonderland Zen Skirt the toe of the Carbon Glacier before the Wonderland continues climbing to by wandering down the trail towards traversing the wildlife safari of Berkeley Panhandle Gap, the trail’s highest point St. Andrews Park, experience the eye- Park. Finish the circuit from Sunrise to (6,800 feet). Here, enter alpine tundra, popping scenery at the base of the Longmire (35 miles). See the spectacular often snow-covered year round, and Tahoma Glacier or just relax in the sun on east side, including Summerland, the watch for mountain goats. the shores of St. Andrews Lake. Panhandle Gap and Indian Bar.

Direction: The most popular way is clockwise simply because the uphills are less steep. Training: Get in Wonderland Trail shape by doing repetitive local hikes. Train with the same clothing, gear and trail foods to gauge what works best for your optimal performance. Permits: Mount Rainier National Park requires overnight hikers to preselect designated back- country destinations. Wilderness camps have 1–12 sites, a rustic privy and a nearby water source. Weather: Mount Rainier is known for making its own weather systems. Be prepared and plan for anything, including the possibility of snow, even in midsummer. Panhandle Gap, by Tami Asars guidebook: Pick up Hiking the Wonderland Trail, by Tami Asars (mountaineersbooks.org). Hot shower & comfy bed: If you plan to start your trip at a trailhead other than Longmire, you could schedule a night at the National Park Inn halfway through your journey.

Wonderland Trail Stats

Year created: 1915 trailheads: Longmire, Sunrise, Mowich Lake, White River Campground, distance: Approximately 93 miles Fryingpan Creek, Box Canyon elevation gain/loss: 22,000 feet camps: 20 (Inc. White River & Mowich) average trip time: 9-12 days Patrol cabins: Indian Henry’s, Golden highest point: Panhandle Gap–6,800' Lakes, Mowich, Mystic, White River lowest point: Ipsut Creek–2,320 feet common wildlife: squirrels, hoary marmots, gray jays, Clark’s nutcrackers, best season: Late July to September mountain goats, black bears permit opening: March 15 information: nps.gov/mora Wonderland Map 269S: Mount Rainier Trails Green

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 33 Northwest Exposure

Every year, WTA is flooded with photo entries for our annual Northwest Exposure photo contest. In 2012, we received more than 1,500 photo entries. It's a tough job for our photo judges to narrow down so many outstanding images to the 13 prize-winning selections. Here are 10 honorable mentions and editor's picks that were worth sharing. Thanks to all who participated. — Eli Boschetto

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34 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 6 9

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1 Skyline Divide, Mount Baker Chris Weber 2 Black Marmot, North Cascades Amy Kwok 3 McGregor Mountain Rich Young 4 Paradise, Mount Rainier John Tomlin 5 Skyline Ridge, Stevens Pass Patrick Ryan 6 Hope Lake Trail, Mount Baker Carl Gronquist 7 Coyote Wall, Columbia Gorge Lauren Dawkins 8 Easton Glacier, Mount Baker Suzanne Anderson 9 Boardman Lake Trail, Mtn. Loop Brett Holt 10 Black bear, Tiger Mountain 8 Mary Jo Allen

Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 35 36 Washington Trails | Jan+Feb 2013 | wta.org 2013 Calendar Washington Trails Association preserves, enhances and promotes hiking opportunities in Washington State. We engage and mobilize a community of hikers as advocates and stewards for our trails statewide. Through the dedication and generosity of our members, volunteers and partners, we are committed to leaving a rich legacy of trails and wild lands for future generations to enjoy.

As the state’s leading hiking resource, WTA serves more than 1.7 million hikers each year through our bimonthly magazine Washington Trails, our website, wta.org, and community events. Through collaborative partnerships and grassroots advocacy, WTA focuses on state and federal issues, including trail funding, hiker safety and wilderness protection.

WTA has built the nation’s largest volunteer trail maintenance program. WTA volunteers—adults and youth alike—can be found on the trail in every season, contributing more than 100,000 hours annually to keep trails open and well maintained for everyone. WTA by the Numbers (2012) 170 Trails maintained statewide 100,000 Volunteer hours on trail 15,175 Volunteer hours by youth 2,750 Total volunteers 6,000 Trip Reports filed on wta.org 2,150 Trip Report contributors 12,000 Miles hiked during Hike-a-Thon

In 2013, look for WTA volunteers on your favorite hiking trail as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of our trail maintenance program. We’ll be hosting more events in communities throughout the state, providing top-notch hiking information in Washington Trails and on wta.org, and advocating for trails on behalf of hikers.

We’ve included dates in this calendar for Volunteer Vacation previews, Hike the State, Hike-a-Thon, our first-ever Washington Trails Day and much, much more. Representation of where WTA worked on trails in 2012. Look for WTA volunteers on even more trails in 2013! There are plenty of ways to get involved in 2013.

2nd Place: Marmot Love by David Leahy

1st Place: Fire Ring by Jason Neuerburg

3rd Place: How’s My Hair? by Sean Aylward "Not all who wander are lost." - J.R.R. Tolkien

nd Place 2Hikers in Action Photo by Levi Rippy LOOWIT TRAIL Mount St. Helens Distance: 28-mile loop Map: Green Trails #364 Elevation Gain: 4,100’ Permit: NW Forest Pass Elevation top: 4,800’ season: Summer, Fall* January 2013 *Only experienced hikers should attempt the Loowit Trail in winter. Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5

Figuring out which permit is required for your hike can be confusing. Here’s a breakdown of permits needed to enjoy all New Year’s Day National Bird Day of Washington’s hiking areas. America the 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Provides entry into public lands managed by the National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the U.S. 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Forest Service. This $80 pass covers entrance and standard amenity recreation fees for a year from the month of activation. Purchase online at store.usgs.gov.

Northwest Forest Pass Honored at all 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Forest Service day-use or entrance fee sites in Washington and Oregon. Available as an annual pass for $30 Martin Luther or a day pass for $5. Purchase at Volunteer Vacation King, Jr. Day t1 WTA Open House Preview Day fs.usda.gov or at wta.org/shop.

Discover Pass Look for fee-free days throughout the year at Required for all 27 28 29 30 31 Washington’s national parks, state parks, U.S. Washington State Forest Service and state lands. Parks, Department t1: Fee-free at all State and Federal areas of Natural t2: Fee-free at National Parks Resources lands, and Department t3: Fee-free at WA State Parks of Fish and Wildlife trailheads. The t4: Fee-free at WA State Parks & U.S. Forest Service annual pass is $30 and day passes are $10. Purchase at wta.org/shop or discoverpass.wa.gov. Speak up for trails with WTA on Hiker Lobby Day, February 7. Sign up today at wta.org/action. "Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountain and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters, and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books." - John Lubbock

st Place 1Families on Trail Photo by Jake Johnson SECOND BEACH Olympic Coast Distance: 4 miles Map: Green Trails #163S Elevation Gain: 350’ Permit: Nat’l Park Pass February 2013 Elevation top: 250’ season: Any Looking for an exciting Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday experience this summer? Want to give back to the 1 2 hiking trails you love? WTA offers weeklong Volunteer Vacations in backcountry and Mount St. Helens Climbing Permit frontcountry locations, for youth Applications Begin Groundhog Day and adults, across the state. Join us for a day, a weekend or a whole week of trail work, 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 camaraderie and good food!

• Mount Rainier National Park • Olympic National Park Volunteer Vacation • Glacier Peak Wilderness Registration Opens Hiker Lobby Day • Lake Chelan • Colville National Forest • Leadbetter State Park 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 • And many, many more! Sign-ups start Feb. 4! wta.org/volunteer Chinese New Year Mardi Gras Valentine’s Day 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

President’s Day

24 25 26 27 28 Visit fs.usda. gov/okawen for info on the Enchantments permit lottery. Polar Bear Day Tushar Sharma Join a WTA Volunteer Vacation this summer and pitch in for trails. Sign up at wta.org/volunteer. "Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit is the answer to the mystery why we climb." - Greg Child

rd Place 3Hikers in Action Photo by Ed Hunds SKYLINE LOOP Mt. Rainier Nat’l Park Distance: 6 miles* Map: Green Trails #270S Elevation Gain: 1,400’ Permit: Nat’l Park Pass Elevation top: 6,800’ season: Summer, Fall 2013 *Round-trip mileage from Paradise visitor center The Mount Rainier Wilderness March Information Center begins taking Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday permit reservation applications on March 15. Applications can be downloaded from their website and This year, Washington State Parks 1 2 faxed to their office. Application celebrates its 100th anniversary. processing will begin in random Show your support by purchasing a order on April 1. Confirmation Discover Pass and hiking in a state letters are usually sent by mid-May. Yellowstone Mount Rainier park near you. parks.wa.gov National Park National Park Tips for securing a Mount Established 1872 Established 1899 Rainier permit reservation: •  Flexibility. Include alternate dates and camps on your application. 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Also, keep group sizes small to improve chances. • Weekday entry. Improve your chances by starting midweek, or if attempting to do the complete Wonderland Trail, avoid weekends in high-traffic locations. • Walk-In. Mount Rainier fills 70 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 percent of its permit quota via advance reservation. Walk-ins are available, but plan for options. Mount Rainier Get more details at nps.gov/mora. Daylight Savings Wilderness Permit Time Begins Applications Begin Learn all you need to know about hiking The Mountain in Hiking the 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Wonderland Trail by Tami Asars.

75th National St. Patrick’s Day Wildlife Week Spring Equinox 24 Palm Sunday 25 26 27 28 29 30

Washington State Parks Established Easter 31 Passover Good Friday 1915 t3 Get hiking news, tips and volunteer opportunities. Follow WTA at twitter.com/WTA_hikers. "We don't stop hiking because we grow old; we grow old because we stop hiking." - Finis Michell

st Place 1Flora & Fauna Photo by Harry Ableman HOH RIVER Olympic National Park Distance: 10.6 miles* Map: Green Trails #133S Elevation Gain: 300’ Permit: Nat’l Park Pass Elevation top: 800’ season: Any April 2013 *Round-trip mileage to Five-Mile Island Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Here are a few tips to help you introduce your youngsters to the joys of hiking. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Modify your goals You may not reach the end of the trail. Be prepared to adjust your hike to the enjoyment and comfort level National Walk of your children. to Work Day Pack patience and flexibility Don’t be in a hurry. If you see a bird or animal dart across the trail, use 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 these moments to educate about the natural world.

Know what features are ahead For starter hikes, choose short trails with minimal elevation gain, that have features like lakes, ponds, or waterfalls. Also, point out different kinds of rocks or wildflowers. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Dress for success Check weather conditions before you head out. Children get cold much easier than adults, especially if Columbia Cascades they get wet. Pack along a change of Trail Skills College dry clothing. 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

National Park Week t2 State Park John Muir Day Earth Day Arbor Day Weekend t3 28 29 30 Share hikes, get trail news & join the conversation. facebook.com/ washingtonhikers twitter.com/ WTA_hikers pinterest.com/ wtahikers

Brett Holt Sign up for WTA’s Families Go Hiking newsletter for tips and trips at wta.org/family-newsletter. "Adopt the peace of nature. Her secret is patience." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

rd Place 3Flora & Fauna Photo by Tim Nair CISPUS BASIN Goat Rocks Wilderness Distance: 14.4 miles* Map: Green Trails #334** Elevation Gain: 1,950’ Permit: NW Forest Pass Elevation top: 6,470’ season: Summer, Fall May 2013 *Round-trip mileage from Snowgrass trailhead **Also Green Trails #335 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 No backpack is complete without them. Ensure your safety and the Get ready for hiking season with safety of your hiking partners by always keeping these items in your trail news, special features, gear pack on every hike—from short day reviews and much, much more. trips to overnights. Map 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Compass Water & filter Extra food Glacier Rain gear & dry clothing National Louise Marshall’s National Park Cinco De Mayo Wildflower Week Birthday Established 1872 Firestarter & matches First-aid kit Knife or multitool 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Flashlight & batteries Sunscreen & sunglasses

And don’t forget the 11th Essential: WTA Membership! Mother’s Day

WTA members support trail maintenance, advocacy, and 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 education to preserve the trails you love. Plus, WTA is your source for hiking news, trail tips, trip reports and more. Renew or give a gift membership today! wta.org/membership Other items to consider: 26 27 28 29 30 31 Insect repellent, whistle, watch, emergency blanket, mirror (for signaling), duct tape (great for repairing anything), gloves, extra socks, and an orange vest (during hunting season). Memorial Day For more information about the Ten Essentials, visit wta.org/ten-essentials. Write trip reports, share photos and keep a hiking to-do list with My Backpack. Register at wta.org. "And this, our life, exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in everything." - William Shakespeare

nd Place 2Families on Trail Photo by Catherine Roberts PARADISE Mt. Rainier National Park Distance: 4 miles* Map: Green Trails #270S Elevation Gain: 1,400’ Permit: Nat’l Park Pass Elevation top: 6,800’ season: Summer, Fall June 2013 *Round-trip mileage from visitor center to Panorama Point Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Years of Trail 1 Maintenance In the fall of 1993 Washington Trails Association volunteers National Trails ushered in a new era, putting Day t3 shovels to trails on two sections of the Pacific Crest Trail. Inspired by the vision and leadership 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 of Greg Ball, the new program grew exponentially over the next few years.

By connecting hikers directly Pacific Crest Trail National Get with the stewardship of the Completed 1993 Outdoors Day t4 trails they traveled on, WTA has been able to fill a backlog of maintenance needs as federal 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 and state trail budgets have decreased. In 2012, WTA volunteers built, repaired and improved 170 trails WTA’s Hike the statewide—a value of $2 million Fishing Weekend t3 State Event to our public lands. This year, WTA is celebrating 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 the 20th anniversary of our trails program. Look for stories, events and how you can join a trail crew throughout the year. First Signpost wta.org/volunteer Father’s Day Published 1966 Summer Solstice 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 RAILS AS N T SO TO C G IA N T I I O

H N

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W Greg Ball’s National Park ERE Established 1938 WORKED h Birthday 30 Have fun, meet fellow hikers and pitch in for trails on a WTA work party. Sign up at wta.org/volunteer. "Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to the body and soul. " - John Muir

nd Place 2Trailscapes Photo by Andrey Cherepakhin SAHALE ARM North Cascades Distance: 12 miles* Map: Green Trails #80 Elevation Gain: 3,600’ Permit: None Elevation top: 7,200’ season: Summer, Fall July 2013 *Round-trip mileage from Cascade Pass trailhead Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Always practice good outdoor 1 2 3 4 5 6 ethics when you hike. Be sure to remember these tips for reducing your impact on trails and campgrounds. Hike-a-Thon Registration Opens Washington State Travel single file and stick to Canada Day Wilderness Act 1984 Independence Day established trails, even when they’re wet or muddy. Avoid walking beside trails. This creates braided trails that 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 are an eyesore for hikers and lots of repair work for trail crews.

Hike on durable surfaces such Alpine Lakes as rock, dry grass and snow. Avoid Wilderness wildflower meadows, which can be Ramadan Begins Designated 1976 quickly destroyed when trod upon.

Double-check your camp and break locations for items that 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 may have been forgotten. Don’t just leave it as you found it, leave it better than you found it.

Follow area regulations regarding campfires. Use only existing fire rings and do not create new ones. Extinguish campfires thoroughly before turning in or 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 leaving the area.

Respect wildlife, and always view from a safe distance; never attempt to feed wildlife. Exercise Take Your Pants proper food storage by hanging or for a Walk Day using a food storage container. Carry a zip-locked bag in your 28 29 30 31 pocket or pack to use for your snack and meal trash. Wrap a zip-locked bag with duct tape to use for toilet paper and personal waste, or use a WAG Bag.

For more Leave No Trace ethics, Amy Kwok visit wta.org/leave-no-trace. Make your hiking miles count this summer! Register for Hike-a-Thon at wta.org/hikeathon. I went to the woods because I wished to live "deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived." - Henry David Thoreau

rd Place 3Families on Trail Photo by John Newmark SNOWY LAKES North Cascades Distance: 23 miles* Map: Green Trails #50 Elevation Gain: 2,700’ Permit: NW Forest Pass Elevation top: 6,900’ season: Summer, Fall August 2013 *Round-trip mileage from Rainy Pass trailhead Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Kick off Hike-a-Thon month with a group hike with WTA. Join staff 1 2 3 and board members on a local trail and start logging those miles! Visit wta.org/hikeathon for date, time and location. Washington Hike-a-Thon Begins Trails Day  Because you’ll already be hiking in August. 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 For health and exercise.

 To join the Hike-a-Thon community.

To win awesome gear prizes. Peak Season Day t3 Because you love trails.

To stay in shape this summer. 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

 To win a WTA Volunteer Vacation.

3   To challenge yourself, friends National Appalachian Trail National and family. S’mores Day Completed 1937 Relaxation Day To support WTA. 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 To raise money for trails!

WTA’s Northwest Exposure Photo Contest Begins 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

National Park Service National Trail Established 1916 t2 Mix Day

Help make their miles count for trails. Sponsor a Hike-a-Thoner today at wta.org/hikeathon. "It's not the mountain one must conquer, but one's self." - Sir Edmund Hillary

st Place 1Hikers in Action Photo by Pablo McLoud TRAPPER PEAK North Cascades Distance: 10 miles Map: Green Trails #47 Elevation Gain: 3,466’ Permit: None September 2013 Elevation top: 5,966’ season: Summer, Fall Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Seeing a bear on your hike can be thrilling, but there are some key things to know about bears when 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 you hike or camp in bear country. Avoid surprise encounters by clapping or singing around streams and blind corners. Be watchful for Wilderness Act scat, tracks and trees with scratches. Labor Day Signed 1964 Rosh Hashanah Keep a clean camp when staying in the backcountry. Exercise proper food storage, and carry bear spray in 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 areas where bears are common. If an encounter occurs: Don’t look the bear in the eye; it is seen as a sign of dominance. Positive Thinking Day Yom Kippur Never turn your back on a bear; back away slowly and give the bear as much space as possible. 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Talk calmly and quietly so the bear can identify you as human, and try to defuse the situation. Pick up small children so they do not run or scream. First WTA Trail Talk Like Work Party 1993 a Pirate Day Enjoy! Bears are marvelous creatures, and spotting one on a hike can be a memorable experience. Always view 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 bears from a safe distance—and never, ever attempt to feed a bear.

For more information about hiking in bear country, visit wta.org/bear-country. National Public Fall Equinox Lands Day t1 29 30 Northwest Exposure

Tip 1: Capture hikers coming toward you, not from behind. Tip 2: Photograph wildlife from a safe, respectable distance. Tip 3: Shoot landscapes with a trail or hiker in them. Tip 4: Compose images properly using the rule-of-thirds.

Mary Jo Allen Enter your best hiking photos in WTA’s NW Exposure photo contest: wta.org/northwestexposure. "Climb the mountains and get their good tidings: Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine into flowers, the winds will blow their freshness into you, and the storms, their energy and cares will drop off like autumn leaves." - John Muir

st Place 1Trailscapes Photo by Charles Rackson HEATHER PASS North Cascades Distance: 11.5 miles* Map: Green Trails #50 Elevation Gain: 3,075’ Permit: NW Forest Pass Elevation top: 6,905’ season: Summer, Fall October 2013 *Round-trip mileage from Rainy Pass trailhead Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday The autumn season is a 1 2 3 4 5 wonderful time to see brilliant color in the backcountry, but there are certain risks the shorter days carry. Yosemite North Cascades National Park National Park t Before you go, check Established 1890 Established 1968 the latest trail conditions. Early snow can close trails or drastically change your hike. 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 t Share your hike itinerary, including where you are going and when you expect to return. t Pack the Ten Essentials. In unpredictable weather, it’s also a good idea to bring some sort of emergency shelter, even on a 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 day hike. t Watch weather forecasts and WTA’s Northwest Exposure Photo keep in mind that during fall, Contest Ends weather can turn cold, rainy and Columbus Day snowy in an instant. t Be aware of hunting 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 seasons. Public lands are used by hikers and hunters alike in autumn. Wear bright clothing, make lots of noise to make yourself known, and be aware when hunting is taking place. 27 28 29 30 31

For more info about fall hiking, visit wta.org/ fall-hiking. Halloween Make a pledge to WTA through your employer and support trails all year long: wta.org/workplace. "Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life." - Rachel Carson

rd Place 3Flora & Fauna Photo by Heidi Walker ENCHANTMENTS Alpine Lakes Distance: 18 miles* Map: Green Trails #209S Elevation Gain: 6,000’ Permit: NW Forest Pass Elevation top: 7,800’ season: Summer, Fall November 2013 *Round-trip mileage from Icicle Creek trailhead to core basin Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 WTA draws strength from the dedication of our members and volunteers. WTA’s Volunteer Appreciation–SEA Dia de los Muertos We rely on the financial generosity of members 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 for more than half of our annual funding for trails. WTA’s amazing Daylight Savings Veterans t volunteers—adults and Time Ends Weekend 1 youth alike—give back 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 nearly every day of the year to keep trails open and well maintained. Whether you’ve been a Veterans Day World Kindness Day loyal member for years or recently volunteered for 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 your first trail work party, we thank you. National Take a Hike Day 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Hanukkah Begins Thanksgiving

We’ve got your holiday shopping in the bag: a WTA gift membership. Visit wta.org/gift. "The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness." - John Muir

rand Prize GTrailscapes Photo by Lijuan Guo ARTIST POINT Mount Baker Distance: 5.5 miles Map: Green Trails #13 Elevation Gain: 1,200’ Permit: NW Forest Pass Choose your destination Elevation top: 5,200’ season: Summer, Fall wisely. Popular summer hikes can be avalanche hot spots in December 2013 winter. Select a route that is designated for snowshoeing. Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Check avalanche conditions before heading out on a snowy 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 trail. The Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center is a good resource to consult. Visit them online at nwac.us or call 206-526-6677.

Share your hike itinerary, National Cookie Day where you are going and when you expect to return, with someone. 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Pack the Ten Essentials. Also include an emergency shelter or sleeping bag, lots of clothing layers, a portable shovel and an avalanche beacon.

Know your navigation skills. It is much easier to get lost in winter when landmarks are 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 obscured by snow. Consider taking a potentially lifesaving wilderness navigation course.

WTA’s Santa Work Party Winter Solstice 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

MORE MOST EASIER DIFFICULT DIFFICULT

¢ Low: Generally safe. Festivus Christmas Eve Christmas Kwanzaa Begins ¢ Moderate: Areas of unstable snow possible. Use caution. ¢ Considerable: Avalanches likely. 29 30 31 Exercise extreme caution. Happy Holidays from the staff ¢ High: Avalanches probable. and board of Washington Trails Travel not advised. Association. Cheers! ¢ Extreme: Damaging or life- threatening conditions exist. New Year’s Eve

For more information about winter hiking safety, visit wta.org/winter-safety. Make a tax-deductible gift to support your favorite trails this holiday season at wta.org/donate. rd Place 3Trailscapes Northwest Exposure showcases the winning photos from Photo by David Baxter Washington Trails Association’s 2012 Northwest Exposure photo contest, in the categories of Trailscapes, Flora and Fauna, Hikers in Action, and Families on Trail. WTA received more than 1,500 photo entries. Thanks to all who submitted photos with an interest in showcasing the best that Washington hiking has to offer year-round.

Thanks to this year’s contest judges: Tami Asars, guidebook author and Washington Trails correspondent (tamiasars.com); Randall Hodges, professional hiking photographer (randalljhodges.com); and Damien Murphey, WTA board member (wta.org).

Special thanks to WTA’s corporate partners:

Additional thanks to the sponsors of WTA’s 2012 Northwest Exposure:

MOUNT PILCHUCK Mountain Loop Distance: 5.4 miles Map: Green Trails #109 The Northwest Exposure 2013 Calendar was made possible by Elevation Gain: 2,200’ Permit: NW Forest Pass the generous support of Herb Stusser, and WTA’s Stusser Endowment for Elevation top: 5,324’ season: Summer, Fall Hiking News and Reports.