We asked. You chose. Readers' choice 2012!

A Publication of Washington Trails Association | wta.org

The

Nov+Dec 2012 Enchantments And 40 more of your favorite trails! PLUS: 170 trails maintained in 2012! Nov+Decc 2012

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18 46 NW Explorer: Readers’ Choice 2012 This summer, Washington Trails surveyed readers to discover everything from your favorite state and national parks to the best wildflower, wildlife and fall color hikes. We even threw in some fun stuff like your favorite after-hike refreshments (you might be surprised!), most memorable lost-and-found experiences, and your favorite armchair hiking preferences.

Starting on p.18, take a statewide tour of all the best hiking that Washington has to offer—according to you! You'll likely see many favorites, and maybe discover a few new things. And if you're new to hiking in Washington, here is your to-do list for next year: the biggest, the best and the most beautiful—right here in the Northwest!

Contributors » Tami Asars, Kimberly Craig, Kelsey Donleycott, Lindsay Leffelman, Brittany Manwill, Ashley Morrison, Mike Morrison, Andy Porter, Craig Romano, Lucy Shirley, Aaron Theisen and Eli Boschetto

News+Views Trail Mix Trail Talk » Tim Van Beek Gear Closet » Q&A with ranger Dan Rogers » p.7 Top gear brands, retailers and producers right here in the Northwest » p.42 Hiking News » Wildfires across Washington's trails »p.8 Holiday Gear Guide » New trail for Mailbox Peak » p.9 Check out this selection of new and trail- tested favorites. Then follow the link for the Cleaning up Monte Cristo » p.11 full list and easy holiday shopping » p.46 WTA at Work Trail Eats » Sarah Kirkconnell Prepare a winter feast in camp or on the Trail Work » Sarah Rich Where WTA worked in 2012 » p.12 trail with these tasty recipes » p.48

Youth on Trails » Krista Dooley How-To » Cheers for youth volunteers » p.15 Tips for cleaning and storing gear so it's OR's new ready for next season » p.49 StormSensor Gloves Action for Trails » Jonathan Guzzo let you operate your New wilderness proposals for Alpine Lakes, Featured 'Scape » Jeremiah Pierucci smartphone and plan Olympics and Mount Baker » p.16 Sunset view of Mount Adams » p.51 your hike without taking them off.p.42

2 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Mountaineers Books' publicist Emily White takes in the ridgelines of Mount Rainier and Little Tahoma Peak from her perch along the Wonderland Trail between Summerland and Indian Bar. Photo by Laura Shauger See more in the Readers' Choice section starting on page 18.

What's Your Story? Cover Shot Have you taken an amazing hike in Last fall, nature photographer Washington or the greater Northwest? Paul Raymaker embarked on Captured some gorgeous photos? Perhaps the legendary trek through the had a riotous good time on a Volunteer Enchantment Lakes Basin. Capturing Vacation or BCRT? Or maybe you're an Gnome Tarn, with Prusik Peak expert on marmot behavior, wilderness first reflecting on the glassy water, was at the top of his list of photographs. aid or repairing gear on the fly? Then we The night before Paul and his group want to hear from you. set out, an early fall storm dumped Washington Trails welcomes editorial and 6 inches of fresh snow. It was a cold and blustery hike up Aasgard photographic contributions of all sorts. Pass and into the core area, but the Share with us your adventure, some history, arduous hike paid off. The snow had some know-how or some great imagery. transformed the landscape into a winter wonderland, starkly contrasted For more information on how you can by electric yellow larches, making for contribute to Washington Trails, email a picture perfect scene! [email protected].

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 3 WTA Highlights » A few things we wanted to share Staff Picks: What are your outdoor plans for the coming winter? Board of Directors President WENDY WHEELER JACOBS – Trail running in the mud VP, Advocacy STEPHEN TAN – Skate Skiing VP, Board Development CRAIG MCKIBBEN VP, Communications & Tech ROB SHURTLEFF VP, Finance DOUG BRECKEL VP, Fundraising CAROLE BIANQUIS – Trail work parties Secretary CAROLE BIANQUIS ANDREA BAINES, LISA BLACK – Glamping in Sudan PERRY BURKHART, JEFF CHAPMAN – Building new trails AMY CSINK, TODD DUNFIELD – Snowshoeing with kids LAURIE HARTSHORN, KEN MONDAL DAMIEN MURPHY, STEVEN PAYNE – Low-elevation hiking BILL POPE*, KATE ROGERS, ADAM RYND – Skiing in Methow Valley* Staff Executive Director KAREN DAUBERT – Backcountry skiing in Whistler Advocacy Director JONATHAN GUZZO – Skiing in Methow Valley Bookkeeper Ilona Fauver – Shaping up for next season Chief Crew Leader MIKE OWENS Communications & Outreach Director SUSAN ELDERKIN – Try geocaching Development Director REBECCA LAVIGNE – Explore a lower latitude Development Manager LISA UNSOELD-CHANG – Snowshoeing Digital Content Manager LOREN DRUMMOND – Taking avalanche safety course Editor & Art Director ELI BOSCHETTO – Snowboarding in Colorado Engagement Manager KINDRA RAMOS – Hibernating until spring Field Director ALAN CARTER MORTIMER – Skiing in Methow Valley Finance & Admin. Manager DEB HEMINGWAY – Learn to snowshoe Membership Manager KARA CHIN – Building a snow fort NW Crew Leader ARLEN BOGAARDS – Snowboarding Office Administrator JULIE CASSATA – Running & skate skiing Program Assistant SARAH RICH – Drinking hot chocolate Program Assistant LUCY SHIRLEY – Sledding down Seattle streets Project Coordinator TIM VAN BEEK – Becoming a gunkle TOP: More than 140 volunteers contributed more SW Regional Coordinator RYAN OJERIO – Sledding with daughter than 1,200 hours of maintenance service on ten trails across Washington on this year's National Trail Programs Director MICHAEL STUBBLEFIELD – Outdoor fitness Public Lands Day. Volunteer Coordinator ALYSSA KREIDER – Discovering urban hikes Youth Programs Manager KRISTA DOOLEY – Fly fishing BOTTOM: Hike-a-Thoners from near and far Youth Programs Specialist ALEXA LINDAUER – Crush some sicky gnar pow pow attended the winners party at ExOfficio in downtown Seattle. Washington Trails Volunteers Copy Editors JIM CAVIN*, REBECCA KETTWIG – Exploring lowland parks* Pre-press Proofer MITZI SUGAR – Snowshoeing in Yosemite Washington Trails Vol. 48, Issue 6 Gear Team CHERI HIGMAN, PATRICK LEAHY Owner & Publisher Regional Correspondents TAMI ASARS, NATHAN & JER BARNES WASHINGTON TRAILS ASSOCIATION KIMBERLY CRAIG, KELSIE DONLEYCOTT, DAWN ERICKSON, DAVID HAGEN CHERI HIGMAN, LINDSAY LEFFELMAN, BRITTANY MANWILL, ASHLEY MORRISON Washington Trails (ISSN 1534-6366) is published MIKE MORRISON, AARON THEISEN, HOLLY WEILER bimonthly by the Washington Trails Association, 705 Second Ave, Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98104. Annual membership dues, which include a subscription to Washington Trails magazine, are $40. Single copy Share hikes, get trail news and join the conversation. price is $4.50. Periodicals postage paid at Seattle, WA, and at additional mailing locations. facebook.com/washingtonhikers POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Washington Trails Association, 705 Second Ave., Suite 300, Seattle, twitter.com/WTA_hikers WA 98104. pinterest.com/wtahikers

4 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Front Desk Karen Daubert Executive Director [email protected]

Year One In August, I hiked down from Paddy-Go-Easy Pass, having just delivered ice cream to a group of teens who had spent the week working in the hot sun on that steep and heavily used trail. The volunteers, who at first introduction appeared rather shy, transformed into animated trail experts as they explained their projects and techniques while gobbling Cherry Garcia treats.

After I said goodbye to the grateful teens as they left to explore Sprite Lake for the rest of the day, not only was my pack lighter, but so was my spirit. I had witnessed firsthand WTA’s impact on trails, on volunteers and on hikers—and it felt great.

I have experienced that same feeling many times during my first year as executive director. Having served on the board the previous year, I knew going into the job that WTA was a unique organization. Now, a year later, I realize how much I’ve learned about the generosity of its members, supporters, volunteers and hikers. And how that generosity makes all the difference in terms of WTA’s success.

Our trail volunteers are truly extraordinary. In addition to the youth group, I had the pleasure of joining two other volunteer groups this past summer, a Volunteer Vacation at Bean Creek Basin in the Teanaway, and a Backcountry Response Team in the Enchantments. With aching muscles and through layers of dirt I saw why people return year after year, and even week after week. The volunteers I worked with spoke eloquently about the incredible camaraderie they share and about unplugging from technology and working with their hands on technically challenging trail work projects.

This year I also became one of wta.org’s 2,000 Trip Reporters, sharing some of the 35 hikes I’ve taken since starting 13 months ago. I’ve found Trip Reports quite valuable on a professional level, turning to hikers who know Teanaway trails well to get more information on the impact of motorized recreation there, and on a personal level, to encourage me to visit trails that are new to me.

And speaking of hiking, I was overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and support of our Hike-a-Thoners, who this year smashed every record in terms of numbers of miles hiked and money raised for trails. I spoke with several of the 188 Hike-a-Thoners proudly wearing their blue shirts on the trail in August and enjoyed seeing the community of participants bond by sharing their adventures on a Hike-a-Thon Facebook page. The top fundraiser even showed up to the final celebration in a gown and hiking boots, to the amazement and pleasure of us all!

These are just a few of the dozens of stories I could share. I can’t thank you all enough for such a wonderful first year as WTA’s executive director, and I look forward to next year with the same sense of joy and appreciation. Happy hiking!

Washington Trails Association is a volunteer-driven nonprofit membership organization working to preserve, enhance and promote hiking opportunities in Washington state through collaboration, education, advocacy and trail maintenance. WTA was founded by Louise B. Marshall (1915–2005). Ira Spring (1918–2003) was its primary supporter. Greg Ball (1944–2004) founded the volunteer trail maintenance program. Their spirit continues today through contributions from thousands of WTA members and volunteers. Washington Trails Association • 705 2nd Ave, Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98104 • (206) 971-9966

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 5 Signpost Editor’s Choice Eli Boschetto Editor [email protected]

And the winner is ...

Earlier this year, we surveyed you, the Washington Trails audience, about all your favorite places and preferences for hiking in our beautiful Northwestern state. Think of it as our own miniture Oscars awards—but for hiking. (You'll notice Chasing Ice a movie theme here; see Editor's Choice sidebar.) And you, the readers, were the judges! In tabulating the overwhelming number of responses, we were able to "[Balog's] hauntingly beautiful videos determine some very clear "winners." And, much like the movies, there were both compress years into seconds and capture blockbusters and popular indies. ancient mountains of ice in motion as they disappear at a breathtaking rate." But I'm not about to offer any spoilers. You'll have to proceed through the pages of this issue to see for yourself the parks, trails and other topics that I love movies. If I'm not out hiking, or writing received the most votes and ranked at the top of each category. And as is the about hiking, or photographing hiking, or same with the Oscars every year, there are a handful that have escaped attention putting together a magazine about hiking, I'm usually catching up on the latest features on the that vault straight to the top of my must-see list. In browsing these pages, you're silver screen—everything from the blockbusters likely to see the same—many you've already hiked, and some you may not have. at the multiplex to the indies at the local art But take it from your fellow readers, they're all worthy. house. (My favorites are the theater-pubs!)

This issue was also a fun way to cap my first year as editor of Washington Trails. I recently caught the trailer for a new movie In refreshing the magazine this year, I took the opportunity to go “back to basics,” titled Chasing Ice. The film tells the story of highlighting many of the favorite aspects of hiking in the Northwest: waterfalls, National Geographic photographer James Balog wildflowers, fall color—all that stuff that gets us outside. And I got to wrap it all up and his efforts to capture evidence of global with many of your own picks. And while this puts the finishing touches on 2012, warming by photographing the shrinking the new year is just around the corner. glaciers and icefields of the arctic over a period of three years. Through the use of high-tech Before running the credits and playing the closing themes for 2012 however, time-lapse photography, Balog and crew were I would like to extend a special “thank you” to all the writers and photographers able to witness a very real, and very sobering, who have contributed to the last year's worth of Washington Trails issues. Our environmental epidemic. I was immediately team of regional correspondents has brought in a wealth of trail info to help captivated by the amazing imagery in the you get out and enjoy the outdoors; our gear team has put countless products film—and this is just from the 2-minute trailer! through the ringer to recommend only the highest-quality items to help you The topic brought home to me the very real get the most enjoyment from your outdoor experiences; and our contributing condition that is global warming. On recent photographers have provided a bounty of beautiful imagery to help highlight trips to both North Cascades and Glacier what a spectacular state we live—and hike—in. national parks, rangers have commented that in 20–30 years, there may not be any more So as you settle in for the next Northwest winter, consider the selections in glaciers left in these places. That's a disturbing this issue as your own checklist for the trails you've already done—and the ones premise. It's these immense sheets of ice that going on your own “must-see list” for next season. are responsible for carving and sculpting these magnificent landscapes, and lend themselves to See you on the trails! these places' beauty and admiration.

Winner of more than 20 international film awards, Chasing Ice offers undisputed evidence that our planet is changing—and what we can Gear Junkie Alert! do about it. Check out the gear team's picks for best gear of the season. Look for Chasing Ice in the Seattle and Portland Visit wta.org/gearguide or scan the QR code with your mobile areas starting November 16. chasingice.com device. Every purchase helps maintain Washington’s trails! — Eli Boschetto

6 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Trail Talk

fter serving more than 35 years with the U.S. Forest Service, ranger ADan Rogers is hanging up his ranger hat. He recently chatted with WTA's Tim Van Beek about some of his experiences over the years.

When did you start working for the Forest Forest consolidation followed a few years Service, and what was your motivation? later, which also impacted management of I started working for the Forest Service the districts. Recreation programs survived in 1977. I had been living and working through the availability of grants offered seasonally in the Methow Valley since 1973 by the state and through private sources. and had met Forest Service temp employees Budgets today are going through a similar who had what I thought were interesting situation with grant opportunities becoming jobs. So I applied for a temporary summer job very competitive. and was offered a position for the summer in What did you find to be the biggest the Twisp Ranger District. challenge during your service? How long did you work for the Forest Reduced federally appropriated funding Service, and what did you do in that time? was the biggest challenge. Operations I worked for 35 seasons. The first season was and maintenance funding has been on a fuels reduction crew, the second season reduced to the point that it only funds I spent a couple of months on an engine program management and vehicles, leaving crew, then transferred to trails. I worked in a meager amount for use on the ground. CIP the trails program for the rest of my career, all (construction and restoration) funding has not in the Methow Valley. been available for large projects for the past few years. Funding has always been an issue The first six seasons were spent learning during my career and will continue to be the about trail maintenance and construction. biggest challenge for managers in the future. I particularly liked the first few years that were mostly trail maintenance. I worked on And what was your biggest enjoyment of the district trails one at a time, performing working with the Forest Service? all the maintenance activities as I went along People have been the biggest enjoyment, the trail. Then it evolved into clearing trails particularly the many young people who had as demand increased to have trails opened the experience of working on the trail crew. earlier. During the 80s and 90s, Capital I’ve also enjoyed the many volunteers that I Improvement Project (CIP) funds were more have worked with, the majority of whom had available for new trails and restoration of long distances to travel just to participate on existing trails. Survey and design of trails trail projects in the Methow. Trail contractors was very interesting and challenging; I have mostly been good to work with too. enjoyed this phase of my career immensely. But it's really the people who use the Along with CIP funds came the need to trails and express their thanks for the perform contract administration. I had mostly work volunteers, contractors and trail positive experiences with trail construction crews that provide a way for them to contractors, learning a very different aspect of experience this country’s incredible wildlands. trails management. Another trail activity I enjoyed was log Do you have favorite trail maintenance stringer bridge construction. Starting with the tool? first bridge in 1984, I’ve been involved with I don’t have a favorite tool; they all have more than 30 such bridges. The challenge a particular purpose for which they were for bridge construction is rigging, and that designed. The shovel is probably the most aspect I really enjoyed. universal tool; it can be used for scraping, chopping and of course digging. Boots do an What would you say is the biggest change incredible amount of work too, not only to get you've witnessed with the Forest Service you where you're going and protect your feet, between then and now? but also kicking thousands of rocks off the Ranger district consolidation was an event trail, kicking out old stumps, kicking branches that had a major impact and occurred due to off the trail and heeling out drainage channels federally appropriated budgets being reduced. to get water off the trail.è

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 7 Hiking News Washington Burns On September 8, a freak lightning storm ignited hundreds of fires across the east slope of the Cascades. Many of the smaller fires extinguished themselves, but several took hold, spreading through dry understory and bug-killed forest during our relentlessly sunny late summer. These fires are only now finally being snuffed out by rain and snow, and while it is too soon to fully assess the damage to hiking trails, it is safe to say that this is one of the worst wildfire seasons in recent years.

Winter recreationists will be impacted first. The Table Mountain and Wenatchee Complex Fires burned extensive sections of forest east of Blewett Pass and near the Mission Ridge Ski Area, popular with snowshoers and cross-country skiers. This area is criss- crossed with numerous trails, including the south end of Tronsen Ridge, Mount Lillian and Naneum Creek. These areas are also popular destinations for hikers and horseback riders seeking wildflowers in spring and larches in fall.

Further west, the Cashmere Mountain Fire caused the cancellation of autumn Enchantments permits for three zones. This fire has exacted damage on the trails to Eightmile Lake and Lake Caroline, burning in terrain within the borders of the 1994 Hatchery and Rat Fires. When this area reopens to hikers, expect it to be hotter, more open and lacking the wildflowers that made the steep climb to Lake Caroline more bearable. But as we witnessed in this area since the last fire 18 years ago, it Courtesty of USFS does recover quickly.

Further south, the Cascade Creek Fire closed the entire Mount Adams Wilderness this fall, including a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail. The fire began south of Washington Trails Association Mount Adams and burned up along its western flank,  whipped up by thermals driving down the mountain. July 2012 The fire extended up to the Round-the-Mountain Trail in several places, most notably along the PCT between Horseshoe Meadow and the aptly named Burnt Rock. Like • Comment • Share Old-growth pine forest in the White Salmon River may Kristen Sapowicz I was up at Mount Pilchuck and could see be impacted by the wildfire, along with Stagman Ridge, those lightning bolts! Crofton Butte and other trails that extend to the fire’s eastern edge at the Aiken Lava Bed. Doug Cassidy I had climbed Mount Adams and was in the A few dozen other fires also burned in the Okanogan- final decent when the lightning started. Wenatchee National Forest, but most of these remained small. With agency staff spread thin, and conditions too Lindsey Abair We were camping near Rimrock Lake and the flames were all the way down to the highway. dangerous to allow personnel to explore before winter sets in, it may be next summer before we fully know the extent to which hiking trails have been impacted by the Scott Crozier Myself and two others were in a group of climbers. We decided to get off the mountain. wildfires. Watch for updates and future reports in the Signpost Blog on wta.org.

— Susan Elderkin, Communications Director Share hikes, get hiker news and join the conversation: facebook.com/washingtonhikers

8 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Meet Our Members! Mail(box) Call! SEATTLE – Mailbox Peak has long been billed as one of the most difficult hikes in the I-90 corridor, with a grinding ascent of 4,100 feet in less than 3 miles. Its toughness and the iconic mailbox at the summit lure thousands of hikers each year, outstripping what the current trail can handle and often pushing hikers beyond their limits.

Since at least the 1950s, a heavy green mailbox has sat atop what was formerly known as Garcia Peak. The boot-beaten "billy goat" trail was virtually unknown until the early 1990s when trip reports began to appear in Signpost magazine (predecessor of Washington Trails). The near-vertical trail, never built to modern trail standards, was originally marked with a toothbrush stuck into the ground at the trailhead. But in the last couple Vicky, Dean & Shala Look decades, the popularity of this peak has taken off. Having grown up hiking with her parents on In an effort to provide a safer route to the top of this popular peak, the the Olympic Peninsula, Shala Look has always Washington Department of Natural Resources has begun construction on a valued spending time in the mountains. So new trail to the top. It won’t replace the current route, which will remain when the holiday gift-giving scramble rolled open, but hopes are that the majority of hikers will switch to the newer, around a couple of years ago, Shala’s parents less strenuous 5-mile trail. The new trail will merge with the old at the last gave her something that would last longer than mile on the current route and end at the famous mailbox with its summit any sweater or fancy new iPhone. They gave her registry inside. the gift of WTA membership.

The project to build the new trail is being led by Mountains to Sound Vicky and Dean Look became WTA members Greenway, with significant funding by the Ira Spring Family Trust. The in 2009 after discovering the website through Greenway began the project in May of this year and intends to complete a friend, and they’ve been taking advantage of the work in 2013. Washington Trails Association volunteers spent 25 days WTA’s hiking resources ever since. These days at Mailbox this fall, partnering with teens from YMCA’s BOLD program they mostly hike in the Mount Baker area. and our regular weekday and weekend crews. “I hate parting with my WTA magazine,” says Now Mailbox Peak takes on a new chapter. Stay tuned for more Vicky, “but we have a common area where information about the new trail in 2013. we stay and I like to share my magazines with — Michael Stubblefield, Trail Programs Director others, so I leave them for someone else’s enjoyment. I know the guests love them because I’ll take them down one day and when I The current mailbox atop Mailbox Peak; photo by Robb Collins return the next day they’re all gone!” The Looks were already giving the gift of WTA magazines, so it was only natural that they should give Shala that gift too. “I knew Shala would use a resource where she could find all kinds of info on trail conditions, hiking gear and good eats to take on the trail,” says Vicky.

And use it she has. “I love that my parents have given me a gift membership to WTA for the past couple of years,” says Shala. “The magazine inspires me to try new hikes and to just get outside. The WTA website is awesome and anytime I’m looking for information about a hike quickly, it does not disappoint! And I love that our memberships help to support such a great organization and maintenance of trails.”

This holiday season, share your love of trails by giving the gift of WTA membership—a gift that will have a lasting impression on our shared wild places for years to come. visit wta.org/holiday

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 9 Washington Trails Association’s

Thank You! 2012's Hike-a-Thon event broke all records! We'd like to thank all of this year's participants and sponsors. You can be proud in knowing Meet Lucy Shirley that your efforts will ensure that Washington's trails continue getting the Lucy, hailing from Wisconsin and brand- support they need. new to the Northwest, is WTA's new office volunteer. She will be working closely with Just check out these numbers: the membership and communications departments for the next year through the 188: Participants Mennonite Voluntary Service. This was her 1,100: Sponsors link to Seattle and to WTA. Lucy graduated this year from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, 350: New members Iowa, where she studied art history, 12,000: Miles hiked printmaking and writing. She is enjoying her time at WTA and pursuing her love of $85,000: Funds raised to maintain the outdoors. Washington's trails.

One of the highlights of Lucy's experience Congratulations! so far has been participating in her first weeklong Volunteer Vacation at Holden Village, where she helped build a new part WTA Board Update of the Winston Trail. Previously a novice to trail work, Lucy feels her time at Holden Every summer, Washington Trails Association’s board of directors elects new members Village taught her more about grub hoes and a slate of officers. This year the board welcomed four new directors: Andrea Baines, (her tool of choice for trail maintenance) Perry Burkhart, Steve Payne and Adam Rynd. All longtime members of WTA, they each and soil types than she could have bring a variety of strategic skills and regional diversity to the board—and all jumped ever imagined. Her favorite part of the right in at WTA’s board retreat in October. Volunteer Vacation was getting to work WTA also had a change in board leadership. After two years as president, Rob Shurtleff with other WTA volunteers: “I knew WTA passed the baton to Wendy Wheeler-Jacobs this past September. Wendy has been does great work, but I had no idea how instrumental in leading WTA’s recent strategic planning process. Rob will continue to be great the volunteers are who make that involved as the chair of the new communications and technology committee. work possible. I was constantly impressed by their love for WTA and trails!” We are all looking forward to Wendy’s leadership and our newly minted board members.

Pitch in this holiday season on a trail work party Cougar Mountain, Seattle: Play hooky for a day or two and help Cape Horn, Columbia Gorge: Help maintain this favorite build a reroute on the tried-and-true Big Tree Trail close-in to southwest Washington trail that offers stunning views of the Seattle; first two weeks of Nov. Columbia River Gorge; Nov. 1, 3 and Dec. 13, 15

Taylor Mountain, Issaquah Alps: Recently logged, the Kerry Creek Beacon Rock State Park, Columbia Gorge: Help put the finishing Trail needs a reroute—a perfect opportunity to help create some touches on the new connector between Hardy Ridge and Hamilton brand-new trail; weeks of Nov. 13 and 20 Mountain; Nov. 15, 29

Grand Ridge, Issaquah Alps: Flex some trail-building muscle Larrabee State Park, Bellingham: Spend a day or two helping with a variety of maintenance work in this King County park with a maintain the trails in this northern Puget Sound park with views of backcountry feel; Nov. 27 and Dec. 4 Samish and Chuckanut Bays; Nov. 10-11, 24-25

WTA has a variety of weekday and weekend work parties through November and December. Find one near you, in one of your favorite hiking haunts, and come support Washington’s trails. For info, visit wta.org/volunteer

10 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Cleaning Up a Mining Relic Next year, the Monte Cristo Mining Area will be closed for environmental rehabilitation. What will this mean for hikers?

NORTH CASCADES – Dubbed for the novel by Alexandre What will access mean in two years? We don’t know. Dumas, the town of Monte Cristo in the North Cascades Workers are currently building a new road for project once bustled with mining activity after metal deposits were access and equipment transport, but at this time, it is not discovered in 1889. Ore was extensively mined, the rock intended to be a permanent, motorized route. Approval by coarsely crushed in a concentrator, then transported by rail the secretary of agriculture was required due to its location to a smelter in Everett. In 1897, floods destroyed rail access, in a designated roadless area. When the project is complete, and by 1920, mining activity in Monte Cristo fell silent. the Forest Service will invite public input regarding access, perhaps assessing a road-to-trail conversion, or resuming Unfortunately, the mining boom left behind more than access via the currently closed road at Barlow Pass. great recreation opportunities for hikers, climbers and history According to the removal buffs. The waste material action memorandum signed dumped from the mines onto by MBSNF supervisor Jennifer the surface soil has been Eberlien, the history of Monte leaching contaminants into the Cristo will be preserved as water. Contamination levels much as possible. Crews at the Monte Cristo Mining will recontour the terraced Area (MCMA) currently exceed landscape on the slope where maximum standards of safety the concentrator was located; set by the U.S. Environmental the famous “Now and Then” Protection Agency and the rock, seen in many historical Washington Department of photos of Monte Cristo, will be Ecology. preserved; and the Stillaguamish Tribe will train workers how to In 2006, the Mount Baker- identify items of importance to Snoqualmie National Forest tribal history. (MBSNF) was sued by the Washington Environmental The project is designed to Council, claiming the agency comply with various laws to wasn’t moving fast enough with protect the environment, such plans to remove contaminants as work hours that prevent from MCMA. The judge sided disturbing marbled murrelet with the U.S. Forest Service activity, and strategies to avoid because it had already been a rare type of lichen found in working under the guidance the area. WTA will continue to of the Comprehensive keep you updated on the Monte Environmental Response, Cristo closure, and any other Compensation and Liability Act, pertinent information, until the created to address the cleaning area is reopened to public use.è of hazardous waste sites. If you would like more In 2009, the Forest Service information on the Monte and Ecology, which is handling Cristo Mining Area closure and the cleaning of private lands cleanup plans you can go online within the MCMA, jointly and review the removal action received a bankruptcy memo at www.fs.usda.gov/ settlement of nearly $11 million Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/ from the American Smelting and stelprdb5392906.pdf Refining Company, who once owned mining claims at MCMA. — Kim Brown The settlement will be used to pay for the cleanup. Next year, The "Now and Then Rock" that Monte Cristo access will be marks the entrance to the Monte closed to the public while the Cristo Mining Area and townsite, cleanup, expected to take about over the course of 110 years—and two years, is underway. When still present today. the cleanup is complete, public Photo courtesy of the Granite access will be restored. Falls Historical Museum

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 11 WTA at Work Sarah Rich Program Assistant [email protected] WTA Was Here

This has been a bang-up year for trail maintenance. In 2012 our diligent volunteers put their noses (and their pulaskis) to the grindstone on 170 trails across the state— more trails than ever before. Some of these were continuations of long-term projects, others were new trails constructed this year, and still others were trails that had been damaged or neglected in the last year and needed attention. But what unites all of these projects are our dedicated volunteers, digging away in the dirt day after day, month after month. When they walk back over their work at the end of each Claire Hanson day, these volunteers are leaving better trails behind for all of us to enjoy.

Bean Creek Basin, Teanaway Half of my crew had worked at Lone The basin just below Bean Peak affords stunning views of Mount Fir“ the summer before. It was wonderful Stuart above wide wildflower meadows. Unfortunately, this means to see the connection they had to this hikers have been cutting boot trails across the meadow to take in this spectacular scene, tromping wildflowers and churning up a muddy place, and the leadership roles they took mess in the process. The solution: a WTA Volunteer Vacation crew. with new WTA volunteers. “Our project,” explains crew leader Claire Hanson, “was to pull the — Alexa Lindauer,” WTA Crew Leader trail out of the meadow and up onto a nearby hillside, both protecting the meadow and establishing a trail that could shed the water and avoid the mess.” Lone Fir, North Cascades

Unfortunately, several boulders got in their way. The crew had This summer, youth and adult crews chipped to dodge the new reroute around rocks as well as whitebark pines, in on different parts of the family-friendly loop a species of tree that is on the brink of being endangered. Land trail that winds out of the Lone Fir Campground managers asked the crew to avoid spinning the trail next to these trees. and rambles along Early Winters Creek. A It quickly became a tricky challenge figuring out where to lay the trail. Backcountry Response Team (BCRT) struck But by the end of the week, they had a much safer trail under their out in June to build new steps at both ends of feet. Hanson says, “A group of riders on horseback came through and an elevated log bridge that WTA had built in commented on how dangerous it had always felt to be sliding around in previous years. They repaired the handrails and slick mud while on a horse, and what a relief it was to have solid trail.” strung a temporary guard on both sides. They also went to work on a connecting The reroute nature loop trail. Part of this trail had become a muddy pit, which was turning hikers away. turned“ out Eager to make the trail more inviting, a youth great, thanks crew set to work building a 40-foot-long puncheon bridge over the mud. All of the wood to an incredibly they used to build the puncheon was felled hardworking and milled locally by land manager Dan Rogers, from the forest right around the construction group cutting site (read more about Rogers in this issue's Trail that trail. Talk, on page 7). Under Rogers’ supervision, the youth used power tools to drill in the 3-foot- — Claire Hanson, ” Alexa Lindauer wide stringers, and torches to burn the metal Crew Leader rebar and mold it into shape.

12 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Big Rock, Spokane Valley Since coming aboard Climbers flock to Big Rock to summit the impressive figure it cuts across the plains. In the as WTA’s trail past few years, WTA volunteers have also built a steadier, more gradual trail up Big Rock, and this year we returned for more. programs director three months ago, WTA volunteers, including lots of local climbers, came out to build 900 feet of new tread along the ridge of Big Rock. This was accomplished fairly quickly since the terrain in the area I've become acutely is so open that not much bushwhacking was required. Crews leveled the tread out and made aware that volunteers sure that the trail was well marked. At one point they ran into the obstacle of an old pick-up truck that had been dragged to the top of Big Rock years ago. Since then it had been pushed are the backbone, the farther down the hill and just happened to be perched in the middle of where the trail was bedrock, the bulwark planned. WTA crews politely rerouted the trail to skirt around the truck, knowing that the county would eventually come and haul it out. that is WTA. I’ve talked with several Having completed this new trail section at Big Rock, WTA helped the county in land managers who its broader goal of improving the regional publicly and privately trail system. Their overall vision is to link trails together in the Iller Creek-Big sing the praises of our Rock area to create a comprehensive trail volunteers' work. system—and with WTA’s help, they’re off to a good start. How can I say enough We laid the trail out despite good about all the folks, of all ages, who all“ obstacles—natural and selflessly give time unnatural. Kindra Ramos and labor of love to — Alan Carter Mortimer,” WTA Field Director the beautiful trails of Washington? As this review of 2012's Blanca Lake, trail work implies, Stevens Pass “Thank You!” is the Given the unearthly aqua hue of Blanca Lake operative message. and its location amidst glacially carved mountains, it is no wonder that the Blanca Lake Trail is And included in our so heavily worn by day hikers. The steeply appreciation are all descending last half-mile before the lake has especially roughened with use. So this summer, in the land managers, full trail rescue mode, 28 hard-hatted volunteers full-time and seasonal stepped up to remodel the Blanca Lake Trail on staff and partnering two different day trips and two four-day BCRTs. organizations that Their first project was performing regular maintenance on the trail, brushing and logging help WTA leverage out the corridor. Closer to the lake, WTA I was happy to work on this excellent work to the volunteers decided to reroute the marshy section by revamping a stretch of old trail that had grown section“ because it allows hikers fullest. And, of course, over. They set to work clearing and brushing to concentrate on the upcoming our amazing members! the old trail, removing roots and regrading the tread. Then they installed drainage systems to view of the turquoise-colored lake, I’m looking forward to help prevent future trail deterioration and a series of rock steps to make passage easier. Finally, instead of trying to watch their 2013 as together we volunteers tossed brush and rocks onto the now step and make sure their ankles grow forward! defunct trail to direct hikers onto their newly re-created trail that leads down to the glittering could carry them back out! — Michael Stubblefield, Blanca Lake. No more twisted ankles for weary Trail Programs Director — Zachary McBride, Crew Leader hikers, at least in this little part of the forest! ”

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 13 Hardy Ridge, Beacon Rock State park Three years in the making, this newborn 0.75-mile trail is almost finished. Recently christened the “Bridge Trail,” it crosses Hardy Creek and joins the Hardy Ridge area to the popular Hamilton Mountain area. The multi-use Bridge Trail is the second of two new trails in Beacon Rock State Park's back country. The other is the hikers-only Hardy Ridge Traverse, a steep trail that loops around the west side. Andrea Martin There was no shortage of challenges on the Bridge Trail project. For one thing, the original trail was too steep in sections, so WTA crews put in a reroute that regraded the trail. WTA also had to remove West Fork Humptulips, rocks and roots from the tread. With the exceptionally rocky terrain, constructing this tread was difficult. It also meant that when the rains Olympic National forest come, the water just flows through the rocks and onto the trail rather Nestled among old growth and towering than being absorbed by mineral soil. WTA set to work constructing a peaks, this rain forest valley trail has turnpike in one particularly swampy place, with two culverts running unsurprisingly become waterlogged in places. underneath. They also built several new rock walls, two major creek West Fork Humptulips is heavily used by stock, crossings and a few minor ones, placing stepping-stones for hikers. As which only accelerates trail deterioration during they forged ahead, WTA crews learned more than they ever had before wet and muddy periods. This muddy area had about trail structures and building mechanics. created a hazard to stock and influenced hikers to bushwhack other trails around the mud, causing even more impact on the forest. I have a lot of To tackle the situation, a WTA youth crew satisfaction“ because began work on a 200-foot bypass around the chronic flooding problems. The challenge I remember what it was significant considering their youthful looked like when I inexperience, the difficulty of the work and their one-week time constraint. In their favor was first went through their motivation, their hardworking character and their pride in doing a job well. By the end there, when there of the week, eight youth and two crew leaders was no trail. It gives had constructed not one but three puncheon bridges. They slogged around in the mud to you a real sense of set the sills and lay the stringers that the Back Country Horsemen of Washington had brought accomplishment. in. When they had completed three 30-foot — Lee Young, Crew Leader puncheons, they went back and transplanted ” ferns and other native vegetation to make the Ryan Ojerio area look more natural.

u Middle Fork Snoqualmie u Kaleetan Lake Trail WTA has I-90 covered! u CCC Road u High Lakes Hiking trails close to Seattle receive a lot of wear and tear every year. u Pratt River Connector u Dingford Creek This makes it especially essential that we go back annually to rework u Annette Lake u Mount Catherine tread, reinstall drainage systems and brush the trail corridors to keep u Pratt Lake u Cougar Mountain these trails open and available for regional hikers. Needless to say, our u McClellan Butte u Grand Ridge volunteers met that need in 2012. u Asahel Curtis u Soaring Eagle u u As usual, volunteers came out in strength this year on trails hugging Wagon Road Taylor Mountain the I-90 corridor close to Seattle. By the end of 2012, we’ll have u Franklin Falls u Tiger Mountain invested over 25,000 hours of trail work in the Puget Sound area. Most u Denny Creek u PCT Snoqualmie Pass of these hours were logged by individual volunteers, but WTA also u Talapus/Ollalie u Mailbox Peak hosted quite a few work groups on these trails this year, including Boy u Gold Creek u Squak Mountain Scouts, Google and Microsoft employees among others. u Snow Lake

14 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Youth & Families Krista Dooley Youth Programs Manager Cheers for [email protected] 3 Youth Volunteers In 2012, WTA offered more youth-specific work parties than ever before—including once-a-month work parties for teens during the school year and the addition of two weeks of spring break work parties. Additionally, 43 work parties were completed in collaboration with 18 community partners.

“Without the wilderness we lose our central tool for supporting the growth of our students,” says Josh Epstein, YMCA's BOLD program director. “Though every trip we lead includes a strong Leave No Trace element, we rarely get to give back to the natural world. WTA offers us the tools and expertise to give students a meaningful experience centered on stewardship that is both rewarding and fun.”

This summer, WTA also hosted 11 frontcountry and five backcountry Youth Volunteer Vacations for teens aged 14- 18. These young trail stewards volunteered in two national Eli Mauksch parks, three national forests and two state parks. All that work didn’t go unnoticed by hikers, and praise for our youth crews, and their accomplishments, came from all directions. My fiance and I ran into a group of WTA teens on“ the fifth day of our Wonderland Trail adventure. As we look back and celebrate the great work youth volunteers contributed to trails this year, we continue to be We hiked past them heading toward the Spray inspired by the positive impact that the next generation of outdoor leaders is making today! Park area, and as we did we thanked them for their hard work. We continued on our journey and as we passed several areas where it was obvious these kids had poured long, hard hours into [maintaining] the trail we felt compelled to hike back and take their picture, as they had truly touched our hearts with what they had accomplished. Thanks, again, for all your hard work! ” — Jodie Heffron via Facebook For the Record 2012's youth volunteers racked up some impressive stats u Youth trips: 59 u Hours worked: 14,117+ u Calendar days: 99 u Safety talks: 261 u Hard hats earned: 95* u WTA vests earned: 3** u Percentage of WTA's 2012 work: 12 *5+ volunteer days on trail **25+ volunteer days on trail ** Congratulations to Joshua Rubenstein, Helen Miller and Kyra Faulstich

Photos by Steve Hertzfeld and Alexa Lindauer

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 15 Action for Trails Jonathan Guzzo Advocacy Director [email protected] New Wilderness in the Works On the heels of the newly-christened Wild Sky Wilderness, several proposals target expansions of the Alpine Lakes, Wild Olympics and Cascades Wild areas

If you went hiking in national forest land Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act this past summer, it’s likely that you spent at least some of your time in wilderness. The most Sponsored by Sen. Patty Murray and outgoing Rep. Norm Dicks, the durable and stringent protection that federal land Wild Olympics bill protects 126,000 acres of Olympic National Forest and can have, wilderness designation prevents road adds 19 new Wild and Scenic Rivers to the system in Washington state. building, logging and mining and also prohibits This legislation has just been introduced, which is a significant hurdle. motorized and mechanized equipment, such as Advocates for the Wild Olympics proposal have spent three years building dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles. Washington public support for wilderness in communities around the peninsula, has more than 4.5 million acres of wilderness, including 141 local farms and businesses. Advocates for the proposal took most designated between 1964 and 1984. In pains to ensure that road access to the Olympics would not be affected 2008, the Wild Sky Wilderness bill passed, by the proposal, pulling the boundary back 200 feet around any existing protecting 106,000 acres and ushering in a new access roads to allow for reroutes if roads wash out. generation of wilderness proposals. Cascades Wild There are three big wilderness efforts on the Still in development, this proposal focuses on the north Mount Baker- table in Western Washington. Like Wild Sky, Snoqualmie National Forest, with a goal of protecting 300,000 acres of these proposals contain a significant percentage public land and hundreds of miles of rivers with Wild and Scenic River of low-elevation forest, critically important for status. Preserving these lands as wilderness will protect the headwaters of both species habitat and clean drinking water. Puget Sound, enhance species habitat and keep water safe and clean. These old-growth river valleys were heavily underrepresented in earlier wilderness areas. We The groups organized behind Cascades Wild—including WTA—have a don’t expect to see movement on these bills this goal of releasing a proposal map by the end of the year, and have spent year, but they’re developing and all worthy of the past several years building local support. Since mapping is not yet the support of hikers. completed, there is no specific legislation to support, but Cascades Wild is determined to protect the lowland forests that remain on the west slopes Alpine Lakes Wilderness Additions and of the Cascades. We will continue to update you on this proposal when Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers legislation is introduced.è Protection Act You can help. Thank Reps. Reichert and Dicks and Sen. Murray for their Introduced by Rep. Dave Reichert and support. Stay tuned to the Signpost blog at wta.org for action alerts. Sen. Patty Murray, this proposal would preserve 22,000 acres of land in the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and Pratt River drainages, as well as lands contiguous with the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Much of the proposed addition is low-elevation forest. Advocates for this legislation have been working since 2006 to build local energy for wilderness Purple areas on this status, resulting in hundreds of supporters, map illustrate the including a bipartisan group of elected officials, proposed addition to the Alpine Lakes numerous conservation, recreation and hunting Wilderness. The new organizations and a broad list of individual boundaries would supporters. WTA has been an early and strong add another 22,000 supporter of the Alpine Lakes Proposal. acres of wilderness protection to the “This bill has strong local support in the Pratt and Middle Snoqualmie Valley and the broader community,” Fork Snoqualmie said Tom Uniack, Washington Wild conservation Rivers. This director, “and it’s a matter of when rather than if proposal is strongly this proposal will pass.” supported by WTA.

16 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Membership Rebecca Lavigne As the days shorten and the rain settles in, I like to pull up the photos from my Development Director summer backpacking trips and start to formulate plans for the new year. Then, [email protected] from my desk inside WTA’s office, I think about those volunteers who are out there, even now, in the rain, mud and sometimes snow, giving back to preserve my favorite trails for next season and beyond. This brings me to my top 10 list of hikers who have inspired me this year.

Terry Lamp If you hiked between Larrabee State Park and Jeff Chapman Hikers won a major victory this year when Mount Baker this season, chances are you benefited from Terry’s Congress extended funding for the Recreational Trails Program and volunteer trail maintenance. This newly minted assistant crew leader Gov. Gregoire determined that Washington’s share of the funds would stepped up in a big way in 2012, earning both his trail crew vest (for 25 stay focused where they belong: on trails. Over the course of a three- WTA work parties completed) and personalized Corona hand saw (for year battle, this WTA and Back Country Horsemen of Washington board 50 work parties) in one year. member advocated for hikers every step of the way, from Olympia all the way to Washington D.C. Tami Asars The Mountaineers Books just released Tami’s Hiking the Wonderland Trail book (see page 47), but Tami has long been Grand Ridge Trail Volunteers generous in sharing her expertise with the hiking community. WTA There are an astounding 1,552 individual WTA members will recognize her as a regional correspondent in the pages of volunteers who deserve credit for helping to this magazine and as our Mount Rainier expert at WTA’s Hike the State build this new trail in Issaquah that’s becoming event this year. a year-round haven for hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners and equestrians. King County Parks’ Randy Greyerbiehl Last spring, this volunteer earned his ribbon-cutting ceremony in April capped off an 11-year collaborative blue hat to become WTA’s second chief crew leader based in Spokane. effort with WTA to take the 7-mile trail from vision to reality. The results of his leadership are reflected on trails at Liberty Lake and Mount Spokane, as well as in the wilds of the Salmo-Priest Wilderness. YOU! As a WTA member, you’ve made a commitment to giving back to hikers today, tomorrow and generations from now. Your Janelle Walker Hikingqueen, as collective financial support provides nearly 60% of our annual budget, she is known on wta.org, has truly earned powering everything we do from wta.org to maintaining a record 170 her nickname among 2,000+ hikers filing trails statewide this year. trip reports on WTA's website so far this year. Janelle's infectious enthusiasm for the wonders The best way to keep your coveted #1 spot? Give as generously as of hiking and wildlife nearly jumps off the you can to WTA by December 31 and help us start strong in the new screen. Her status as hiking royalty was furthered in 2012 by her year. Thank you! Hike-a-Thon debut, when she placed in the top 10% of fundraisers.

Eli Mauksch This WTA youth program alum has climbed the ranks since completing his first Youth Volunteer Vacation in 2007, while Join us in protecting the trails you love. You can help WTA do more for trails all year long by making a still in high-school. In 2011, Eli was selected to intern with WTA as an year-end contribution. Help us reach our $70,000 goal so that assistant crew leader and returned for a second season in 2012. By we can start strong in the New Year. Make your tax-deductible August, Eli earned a well-deserved promotion to chief crew leader for gift by December 31 online at wta.org/donate. his proven ability to motivate teen volunteers and manage projects.

Zachary McBride If you love trails like family-friendly Lake Serene, challenging Blanca Lake, or wild West Fork Foss, then you have Zachary to thank for his work as WTA’s 2012 Skykomish Ranger District crew leader. Zachary is part of an amazing seasonal crew leader team that extends WTA’s reach throughout the Cascades and Olympics during the busy summer months.

YMCA BOLD WTA began working with YMCA’s Boys Outdoor Leadership Development program in 2010 to give middle- and high-school students hands- on experience giving back to the trails they explore. Seeking to expand their partnership with WTA, BOLD launched a new service-focused program called Earth Movers. By year’s end, we anticipate that a dozen students in the program will receive their own personalized hard hats for completing five days of service with WTA.

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 17 Selected as the favorite in numerous categories of Washington's hiking opportunities, the Enchantments are a land of brilliant alpine lakes surrounded by jagged granite peaks. Here, the deep turquoise of Perfection Lake is backed by snow-capped Little Annapurna. Photo by Eli Boschetto INSET: Alpine Lakes Wilderness trail sign, by Mike Morrison Readers' Choice

This past summer, Washington Trails surveyed you—our members and readers—about all things hiking in Washington. From favorite state and national parks to day hikes and backpacks, waterfalls, wildflowers, wildlife and more. We asked how many miles you hike per day, how many nights you spend in the wilderness and where you're going to satisfy that post-hike hunger. We even found out how you navigate, what you've lost—and found—and what boots you're wearing. Then we went to work tallying it all up. The next 24 pages highlights everything you selected as the best, brightest and most beautiful. You'll likely see many of your own favorites—and maybe a few surprises. Regardless, you chose, so here it is—the best of Washington! 18 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org The Alpine Lakes is my favorite wilderness because I can spend “every weekend exploring a different lake or hiking a trail I’ve never been on. I’ve spent countless days basking in the solitude of these mountains, both with close friends and on solo backpacking trips, and those memories will be with me forever. ” – Katie Fellows

Once you have truly earned your access into the core of the “Enchantments Zone via Aasgard Pass you’re rewarded with an amazing low-grade descent passing by ever-changing alpine lakes. Starting with the treeless Isolation lake, and eventually reaching lakes that feel like you’ve entered The Shire, Perfection Lake. – ­­­­­­Stace Van Epps” Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 19 Readers' Choice

NationalBy Kimberly Parks Craig

Mount Rainier represents an always-present “opportunity to escape from home, office and computer and stride off into paradise. This gorgeous park does not disappoint, with incredible alpine meadows, beautiful streams and dizzying views. ” — Aurana Lewis

HIKE IT: Glacier Basin For a taste of Mount Rainier’s true grandeur, hike the 6-mile round trip from the White River Campground to Glacier Basin. Recently restored to original spec by WTA, this family-friendly trail heads up the Inter Fork of the White River to a wide valley below the Inter Glacier. Wildflowers and wildlife abound. Be sure to take the side trip up Emmons Moraine for a close-up view of the Emmons Glacier, at 4.3 square miles, the largest glacier in the Lower 48.

20 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Mount Rainier is reflected in a small pond in Indian Henry's Hunting Ground along the Wonderland Trail Photo by Don Geyer OPPOSITE: North Cascades' Pickett Range, by Don Geyer; Olympic's Grand Pass, by Kelsie Donleycott

Mount Rainier In 1888, on a trip to climb 14,410-foot Mount Rainier, John Muir praised the Paradise Meadows as “extravagantly beautiful.” More than 100 years later, in 1998, author Tim McNulty said simply of Mount Rainier, “Its beauty dazzles.” Now, in 2012, the readers of Washington Trails have declared Mount Rainier their favorite national park in the state.

Encompassing just over 200,000 acres, Mount Rainier is Washington’s smallest national park. But what it lacks in size, it amply makes up for in beauty and diversity, and has been attracting an ever-growing number of visitors since it was established in 1899. In 2011, more than 1 million visitors entered the park to explore, each in their own way, what Mount Rainier has to offer. For hikers, here resides the granddaddy of round-the-mountain trails: the 93-mile, aptly named Wonderland Trail. From strenuous multiday treks to short interpretive trails, hikers of all abilities will find what they’re looking for. Wildlife watchers are treated to a diversity of animals—foxes, black bears, mountain goats, elk, deer, marmots, pikas and bobcats all roam within the park’s borders. Birdwatchers are kept looking skyward in search of golden eagles, spotted owls, ravens, rosy finches, pipits and sooty grouse, to name just a few. Rainier’s world-famous wildflower meadows are scattered throughout and include such beauties as lupine, paintbrush, avalanche lily, shooting star, phlox and heather, while water lovers have nearly 300 lakes and 162 waterfalls to choose from. Even cyclists are rewarded at Mount Rainier with the closed-to-traffic West Side and Carbon River Roads. And, of course, climbers come from the world over to scale Mount Rainier’s magnificent heights. With easy access from all sides, Mount Rainier offers car and wilderness camping as well as rustic lodging options to suit every interest for as long or short as your visit allows.

North Cascades On the heels of Mount Rainier for the coveted title of favorite national park is North Cascades. Covering more than 500,000 acres, with more than 400 miles of trails, North Cascades National Park has been called the “Alps of America.” Despite its long standing on the list of least-visited national parks in the U.S. (and still with free entry!), Washingtonians know the real value of this alpine wonderland. Besides hiking, backpacking and climbing, recreational opportunities include boat-in camping at Ross Lake, Lake Chelan and Diablo Lake, while photographers flock to popular viewpoints of Mount Shuksan and the Picket Range.

Olympic Washington’s largest national park, Olympic, rounds out our readers’ preferred list. Designated in 1938, and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, Olympic covers more than 920,0000 acres, and literally spans from the sea— the Pacific Coast—to the sky—7,965-foot Mount Olympus. With nearly 3 million visitors per year, Olympic is the state’s busiest national park, offering countless opportunities for hiking and camping—from rugged coastline to lush rain forest to high alpine country. The park is home to a diversity of environments and wildlife, creating unique experiences for all visitors.

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 21 Deception Pass Wallace Falls With its breathtaking views, wide variety of recreational Located just outside of Gold Bar, Wallace Falls State opportunities, and plentiful wildlife, it’s easy to see why Park’s most popular draw is the falls themselves, one of which Deception Pass State Park is a favorite of Washington Trails drops more than 265 feet as the Wallace River cascades over readers. Located on Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, just 9 miles rocky cliffs. Three viewpoints of the falls are reached by climbing from both Oak Harbor and Anacortes, this 4,134-acre park boasts 1,200 feet on the 5.5-mile round-trip Woody Trail. An area more than 20 miles of fresh- and saltwater shoreline. The location favorite, expect a great deal of company on this popular hike; the received its name when Captain George Vancouver mistook parking area is generally full by 11 a.m. on weekends. For those Whidbey Island for a peninsula and only later realized the area’s seeking more solitude, the 4,735-acre park offers several other true geography. trails that access the less-visited Wallace and Jay Lakes.

With 38 miles of trails, hikers are provided with plenty of opportunities to explore the park. From a walk along the rugged Steamboat Rock coast, to a trek through forests of towering cedar and hemlock, On the shores of Banks Lake, 16 miles north of Coulee to a stroll along a peaceful lake, there is something for hikers City, Steamboat Rock State Park is named after the basalt butte of all ages and abilities to enjoy. Showcasing an abundance rising 800 feet above the countryside, a remnant of the ice age of tidepools, views of surrounding islands, and the famed floods. Here, hikers can enjoy the trail through Northrup Canyon, Deception Pass Bridge, the trail around the Deception Pass with its impressive bird population, or visit an abandoned headlands provides a great sampling of all the park has to offer. farmhouse, a relic from the homesteading era. A vivid contrast Aside from hiking, Deception Pass State Park offers outdoor from the rain-drenched forests and glaciated peaks of the enthusiasts a slew of other recreational opportunities. Campers Cascades, Steamboat Rock is a unique display of nature’s action. will enjoy the 300 tent and utility sites available at the park’s three camping areas: Bowman Bay, Quarry Pond and Cranberry Lake. Boaters and kayakers will treasure the park’s abundance LEFT: Lower Wallace Falls, by Robert Nowak of both saltwater and freshwater. Wildlife buffs will enjoy the RIGHT: Steamboat Rock State Park, by David Hagen challenge of spotting the park’s 174 bird species, along with a OPPOSITE: The Deception Pass Bridge connects mainland Anacortes diverse collection of sea creatures and forest critters. with Whidbey Island in Deception Pass State Park, by Paul Raymaker

22 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Readers' Choice State Parks By Lindsay Leffelman

HIKE IT: Headlands Trails Try one of these view-packed trails starting from Bowman Bay. For tidepools and views of the San Juan Islands, head west, passing the Rosario Beach to Rosario Head jutting 50 feet above the strait. For spectacular views of the Deception Pass Bridge and Pass Island, head south to loop around Lottie Point or Lighthouse Point. The trails are short—do both!

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 23 Readers' Choice Wilderness and Beyond By Mike Morrison & Eli Boschetto

From atop Yellow Aster Butte in the Mount Baker Wilderness, hikers are rewarded with an in-your-face view of American Border Peak, by Peter Chaussee INSET: Jade Lake in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, by Jim Cummins; Miner's Ridge in the Glacier Peak Wilderness, by Buff Black Alpine Lakes Mount Baker Arguably the most beautiful wilderness area in The Mount Baker Wilderness was established in 1984 by the Washington is the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, topping Washington Wilderness Act and contains 117,500 acres. Its eastern the list of countless hikers and climbers throughout border is shared with the boundary of North Cascades National Park for a distance Washington and the greater Northwest. Established of 40 miles, and it extends north to the Canadian border. The area is renowned for in 1976 and encompassing nearly 400,000 acres, this its spectacular landscape of sprawling meadows, crackling glaciers and jagged section of the central Cascade Range is dotted with peaks. Two of the most popular routes for absorbing all of this wonder are the hundreds of lakes and is known for its proliferation Yellow Aster Butte and the Skyline Divide trails, both of which reveal some of the of jagged, granitic spires and aretes. More than 600 best alpine scenery Washington has to offer—including up-close views of 10,778- miles of trails reach into the heart of this remarkable foot Mount Baker and 9,131-foot Mount Shuksan. wilderness, but the most popular is, undoubtedly, the 16-mile trail through the area known as the Enchantments (see pages 29 and 34), often referred Glacier Peak to as “the Yosemite of the Northwest.” Other notable The Glacier Peak Wilderness was created in 1960 by the combined efforts trails include the West Fork Foss River, a 14-mile of the U.S. Forest Service and the North Cascades Conservation Council. At round trip that leads hikers to five beautiful alpine 572,000 acres in size, the area is characterized by heavily forested river courses, lakes right along the trail, and the East Fork Miller steep-sided valleys and dramatic glacier-crowned peaks. Due to its isolation, it River, a popular thru-hike from I-90 to Highway 2, offers some of the best in backcountry wilderness opportunity. One of the most chock-full of glittering lakes and ragged peaks. No view-packed trails in the area, the 36-mile Lyman Lakes Loop visits the wildflower- matter where hikers set boot in this backcountry choked Spider Meadow, the turquoise Lyman Lakes below Lyman Glacier, and paradise, they are sure to find unparalleled beauty stellar vistas of 10,541-foot Glacier Peak from Cloudy Pass, concluding with a that they will compare all future hikes to. romp down Buck Creek.

24 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Yellowstone There is no shortage of spectacular landscape to tromp around here in the Northwest, but when Washington hikers are ready to hit the road in search of a change of scenery, one destination tops their list: America’s very first national park, Yellowstone, and its neighbor, Grand Teton.

Established in 1872, and encompassing nearly 3,500 square miles, Yellowstone is a natural wonderland like no other. Residing atop a “hot spot” in the earth’s crust, Yellowstone is a massive volcanic caldera. This is what gives the park its unique landscape. Within Nowhere but Yellowstone the park are more than 10,000 geothermal features, 300 of those “can you see elk, deer, active geyers—Old Faithful being the most famous and accessible, with eruptions occurring like clockwork. The geology of the park is bison, moose, antelope, a rainbow of multicolored rock layers and terraces, indicating the grizzly bear and wolves in “living” nature of the landscape. The park is also known for one of the richest concentrations of wildlife within the country. Elk, bison, a single day—in a single moose, deer, pronghorn, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, black place! and grizzly bears, wolves and mountain lions roam freely—hence — Scott Stluka the reason for so many traffic jams on park roads. All of this draws ” an enormous number of visitors to Yellowstone and Grand Teton every year, where all manner of outdoor recreation opportunities abound. Of the 1,100 miles of hiking trails within Yellowstone, some of the most popular—and not to be missed—are the Geyser Basin Trail, Mount Washburn and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone; in Grand Teton, the Jenny Lake Loop and Paintbrush Canyon. Any trip to these parks will leave lasting memories and an experience unlike any other.

Glacier At the top of the Rocky Mountain Range, where Montana meets Canada, Glacier National Park is a rugged example of nature’s mechanics. Home of the famous Going- to-the-Sun Road which crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass (6,646 feet), Glacier was established in 1910, then designated an International Peace Park in 1932. With a diverse and unique ecosystem, reaching from prairie to alpine tundra, Glacier is home to a variety of endemic flora and fauna. Hikers and backpackers can plunge themselves into this exceptional wilderness on more than 700 miles of trails. With its relative proximity, it’s no wonder that Washington hikers consider Glacier National Park an easily accessible extension of the Northwest.

Yosemite In the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada, Yosemite epitomizes the spectacular contrast between glacially carved granite, thundering waterfalls, immense trees and expansive meadows in a way no other national park acheives. Established in 1890 under the influence of John Muir, Yosemite is celebrated the world over for its unparalleled landscape. Climbers flock to the Old Faithful's steaming eruption in sheer granite walls while hikers and backpackers enjoy Yellowstone National Park, by Don Geyer more than 800 miles of trails, reaching from 4,000-foot meadows to 13,000-foot mountain peaks. Immortalized INSETS: Grand Teton National Park, by by the photography of Ansel Adams and recognized as Marty Witt; Glacier National Park, by a World Heritage Site in 1984, Yosemite keeps visitors— Paul Leigh; Yosemite National Park, by including Washingtonians—coming back year after year. Eli Boschetto

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 25 Readers' Choice Spray Park is definitely a “photographer's heaven. Nature's eye candy! — NW_Girl_0-0” Day ByHikes Kimberly Craig

Spray Park On the northwest slopes of Mount Rainier, Spray Park has been awarded so many superlatives it seems almost superfluous to add another. But heaps of praise don’t begin to do justice to what readers of Washington Trails have dubbed their favorite day hike. Spray Park is a sublime series of subalpine meadows, interspersed with open forest and up-close views of “The Mountain.” Like many parks and meadows on Mount Rainier, it can be a virtual carpet of wildflowers come July and August. Lavish displays of avalanche lily, bear grass, lupine, assorted paintbrush, alpine aster and pasque flower await. Elk, black bears and marmots are common residents, often spotted by passing hikers. Accessed from the Mowich Lake entrance, the trail gains a moderate 1,600 feet of elevation over 7 miles. A must-see side trip is the half-mile Spray Falls detour.

Marmot Pass There’s no shortage of amazing trails to be hiked on the Olympic Peninsula, but Marmot Pass in the Buckhorn Wilderness of Olympic National Forest is not to be missed—and well deserving of readers’ high ratings. At just more than 10.5 miles with 3,500 feet of elevation gain you’ll work hard, but the abundance of old-growth forest, alpine meadows, a shaded rest stop at Shelter Rock Camp and the spectacular panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains are a worthy reward for the effort.

Maple Pass Though Maple Pass, just off the North Cascades Highway at Rainy Pass, ranks third on our list, the views are anything but third-rate. This 7-mile loop (best taken counterclockwise to avoid a grinding climb at the beginning) is packed with more scenery than many trails three times as long: a sparkling lake in a deep glaciated basin, gads of summer wildflowers and berries followed by glorious fall-colored larches, lots of residential wildlife, and eye-popping vistas over the North Cascades, Glacier Peak and Pasayten Wilderness areas.

26 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Why We Hike HIKE IT: Spray Park “I go to nature to be soothed and OPPOSITE: Start at the Mowich Lake trailhead and healed, and to have my senses circle Hessong Rock while traversing above Eagle Cliff to expansive wildflower meadows and knock-your- put in order.” Smartwools-off views of “The Mountain.” Double back – John Burroughs for a 6-mile out-and-back, or turn it into a 16-mile loop by continuing to the Carbon River and returning Ask 10 different hikers why they hit the via the Wonderland Trail. Photo by Tami Asars trails, and you’ll likely get 10 different answers. Nature speaks to us all in unique TOP: Located in the Buckhorn Wilderness, Marmot Pass is the hike to do to get the best of everything the ways, calling us to explore its beauty in Olympics have to offer. Photo by Molly McCutcheon any manner needed to refresh body and mind. Some journey outdoors seeking BOTTOM: The scenery-to-mileage ratio is in your favor on the 7-mile Maple Pass loop on the east side vast panoramic views, the kind that make of North Cascades National Park. Photo by John Brink us feel small in comparison and make life’s challenges seem less significant in the grand scheme of things. Others seek encounters with wildlife and the chance to observe an animal in its natural habitat living a simple, uncomplicated life. For some, the sound of a rushing river, babbling brook or thundering waterfall lulls the mind into a state of pure relaxation. The happy chirping of energetic birds helps others achieve an optimistic state of mind. Conversely, some enter the wilderness in search of the silence and solitude needed to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the modern world and recharge the spirit. No matter the reason for crossing the threshold into nature’s awe-inspiring splendor, the rewards are bountiful.

— By Lindsay Leffelman

Not a bad view: Mount Adams from the rim of Mount St. Helens; photo by Lauren Dawkins

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 27 Going the Once on top, you'll be presented with “360-degree views that will simply take your breath away! Distance —” Ashley Morrison Imagine if every Washington Trails member were to go out for a hike on the same day. Based on the mileage preferences as indicated in our recent readers' choice survey the total number of trail miles covered in that one day would be more than 90,000!

Now add friends, family and all those non-member hikers out there on the same day and imagine how many boot miles are being put on Washington's trails. Then multiply that by an entire season. The number is astronomical!

With so much wear—not to mention the Northwest's weather and natural processes—it's clear that WTA's mission to keep our trails maintained is a big one!

Average day hiking mileage: 48% 7–9 miles 23% 4–6 miles 19% 10+ miles 10% 1–3 miles

Average backpacking mileage: 40% 10–20 miles 27% 6–10 miles 21% 20+ miles 12% 1–5 miles

Average nights on backpacks: 51% 1–2 nights 38% 3–4 nights 11% 5+ nights

28 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Readers' Choice Backpacks By Tami Asars

Enchantment Lakes When the sweet freedom of a few days off from “the ol’ grind” gives way to a backpacking adventure, there might be no place more scenic than the Enchantments, located southwest of Leavenworth. This special treasure tops the list of best backpacking trips in Washington, and for good reason. Granite steals the show in a subalpine climate that touts rocky lake basins and waterfalls gently guiding you from one to the next. But wait, there more! Impressive granite spires, sparkling tarns, off- trail climbs, adventurous scrambles, mountain goats walking through camps, and mosquito-eating brook trout are just a smattering of what to expect when you visit this pristine and enchanted granite kingdom. Located completely in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the hike can be approached from one of two trailheads off Icicle Creek: Colchuck Lake-Aasgard Pass or Snow Lake, neither of which is easy. The infamous Aasgard Pass climbs steeply up shale and scree and gains 2,200 feet in just under a mile, while the Snow Lake approach gains 4,100 feet in 6.5 miles. But the climb is worth every heart-pounding step! The area is known for its beauty, particularly its upper basin which, in fall, is sprinkled with the sensational coloring of orange and yellow larches at every turn. Fitting mystical names have been given to various landmarks, such as Troll Sink and Gnome Tarn, making the imagination run wild and creating a natural Disneyland of sorts. With plenty of eager visitors, it’s not surprising that the U.S. Forest Service has a lottery-based permit system in place to limit overnight camping from June 15 to October 15.

Wonderland Coming in at No. 2 for the best backpacking trip in our state is Mount Rainier’s Wonderland Trail. Circumnavigating the mountain, a backpacker will walk nearly 93 miles, climbing up and down 22,000 feet of rugged, beautiful terrain. At every turn there is a different view of Mount Rainier’s crumbling, glaciated face, while pristine subalpine lakes and meadows provide a beautiful distraction. Due to the popularity of the Wonderland, a permit system is in place to reduce impact and maintain “The Mountain's” spectacular wilderness.

Old Snowy Last but not least comes Old Snowy Mountain, located in Goat Rocks Wilderness. Part of a large stratovolcano, Old Snowy can be reached by Take in this view of the Goat Rocks a scramble up to its impressive top located at 7,930 feet. The surreal Snowgrass Flat from atop Old Snowy. Access this below the peak shows off many summits along the ridgeline as well as wildflowers, area via the PCT from White Pass, which in full bloom, fill the air with fragrance and provide rainbows of color on or from the Snowgrass Flat Trail. neighboring hillsides. The Snowgrass Flat trail starts near Chambers Lake, just outside Photo by Doug Diekema the town of Packwood.

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 29 Readers' Choice Long-Distance TrailsBy Tami Asars

I think the Pacific Crest Trail is the best long-distance “trail because of its diversity. If you hike along the trail in Washington you’ll get a completely different experience than if you hike along it in the Sierra Nevadas, or the Mojove desert. Plus, there’s something extremely invigorating about the fact that if you had the gear and the time you could transverse the entire country on a single meandering trail. ”— Emily Minalia

The home stretch. Here, the Pacific Crest Trail winds northward over Rock Pass in the Pasayten Wilderness, just 14 miles from the Canadian border. Photo by Andy Porter

30 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Pacific Crest Trail (PCT/Trail 2000) When you ask a PCT thru-hiker to pick their favorite sections of the 2,650-mile trail, not surprisingly, they will almost always include the Goat Rocks Wilderness and the North Cascades sections. So, when it comes to selecting Washington’s favorite long-distance trail, WTA members have fallen in love with the dramatic scenery, mountain vistas and roadless bliss of the Washington PCT.

Whether you hike the roughly 500 miles from border to border, or section-hike various pieces, you’ll be submerged in high mountain passes, old-growth valleys, subalpine scenery and cozy mountain lakes. The Washington PCT starts at the Columbia River Gorge near the Bridge of the Gods at an elevation of only 180 feet. It then climbs up to the Indian Heaven Wilderness, boasting countless lakes and berry-picking opportunities at every turn. Next is the Mount Adams Wilderness, a volcanic utopia filled with wildflower meadows, wildlife and interesting lava fields. Hikers next find themselves in the Goat Rocks Wilderness, standing on “the spine,” a high-altitude, fear-busting rocky ridgeline that tests your balance while it feeds your soul. This is also the highest point of the PCT in Washington at 7,200 feet.

After marinating in the beauty of Goat Rocks, the trail winds into the William O. Douglas Wilderness, traveling from White Pass to Chinook Pass, passing lakes and tarns mixed with forest and subalpine scenery before nearing Mount Rainier. From here, it’s a hop, skip and a jump through some less-than- exciting backcountry clearcuts before entering the most popular section of trail: Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass, offering the peacefulness of no roadways for 75 miles and landscapes like the rocky shoulders of Cathedral Peak. Every year, hundreds of hikers select this particular section of trail for a smaller serving of PCT thru-hiking. Finally come the North Cascades, holding their own magic as you wander though Glacier Peak Wilderness, which includes many permanent snowfields and small glaciers, a visual treat of mountain grandeur and volcanic power! The final stretch takes a high route through the Pasayten Wilderness, and before long you’ve arrived at the far northern border—Monument 78, at elevation 4,240 feet. Whether you take a day, a week or a month, the PCT rewards beyond expectations.

Wonderland Olympic Traverse In second place comes the 93-mile loop of Bringing up bronze, but not by much, is a Mount Rainier’s Wonderland Trail. The 22,000 feet navigator’s favorite: the Olympic Traverse. Not to of elevation gain and loss makes the Wonderland be confused with the Bailey Range Traverse, this a challenge for even the most fit backpackers— 46-mile adventure travels through lush rainforest but rewards them with the beauty of Mount and colorful alpine meadows, sampling every Rainier’s many faces. The trail circumnavigates environment the Olympics have to offer. Starting “The Grandfather,” touching the toes of glaciers, at the Elwha's Lake Mills and heading south, hikers waltzing through subalpine meadows and vistas, skirt the flanks of the Baileys, passing Mounts and introducing hikers to a number of native Dana and Wilder before arriving at the Low Divide plants and animals. In the end, a circuit around in the shadow of Mount Christie. An optional side the Wonderland is guaranteed to instill lifelong route tags 5,753-foot Dodger Point. From there memories. A permit systems requires advance it's a romp down the North Fork Quinault River to planning during peak summer months. Graves Creek.

, Don t Forget Your Map All of the Ten Essentials are important to carry in your pack any time you hit the trail. But of all of them, a good trail map should be at the top of your list. It’s a good thing Green Trails maps have hikers covered. “I prefer—and recommend—Green Trails maps because they are easy to read, readily available, and up-to-date.” — Michael Waiss, Tacoma Mountaineers Hiking & Backpacking Committee

According to our recent readers’ survey, nearly half of you are toting a Green Trails map into the wilderness with you. Green Trails has been around since 1974, producing high- quality topographic trail maps for hikers in Washington, Oregon, California and more. Compact and easy to read, Green Trails Maps clearly indicate popular trails and contain lots of helpful area information. And now Green Trails has paperless maps for iPhone and Android users. Downloadable Green Trails MAPPS are the same high-quality topo maps as the printed version, only for your mobile device.

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 31 Readers' Choice By Ashley Morrison Waterfalls & Eli Boschetto and Wildflowers

Wallace Falls What’s not to love about a lush, green valley coursing with cascades and waterfalls—and a pleasant hiking trail to see it all? Named for exactly that, Wallace Falls State Park hosts nine streaming cataracts, the tallest being 265-foot Middle Falls. Add to that its easy access on the Cascades’ western slope, just east of Everett, and you have a must-see outdoor attraction for locals and visitors alike. Hike up the Wallace River for an up-close look at numerous misty waterfalls, or head out the Greg Ball Trail and visit Wallace Lake. Whether spending just a few hours or the whole day, Wallace Falls is sure to enchant, and it’s what keeps Washington’s hikers coming back again and again.

Twin Falls Look for Twin Falls State Park on a map (as many do) and you’ll be looking for a long time. Look for Olallie State Park and you’ll find one of the Seattle area’s most popular waterfall destinations—Twin Falls. Here, the South Fork Snoqualmie River is concentrated into a narrow gorge, gushes down a series of cascades, then spills over a 150-foot brink, creating spectacular Lower Twin Falls. With a family-friendly 3-mile round trip trail that climbs easily to the falls viewpoint, then a bridge over stepped cascades, this lovely park makes it easy to experience some of nature’s finest.

Comet Falls With the amount of rain and snow dumped on “The Mountain” every winter, it’s to be expected that Mount Rainier will have a gorgeous waterfall or two. One in particular makes HIKE IT: Wallace Falls Washington hikers’ list of favorites: Comet Falls. From the south side road to Paradise, a moderate trail—serviced this year by WTA You'll have plenty of company volunteers—climbs above Christine Falls (another beauty, viewable on the 5.5-mile round trip to visit from the road) along Van Trump Creek to a basalt amphitheater, the three stunning waterfalls of where 320-foot Comet Falls plunges from above. Wallace Falls State Park. But once you're in the presence of the misty, thundering falls, the crowds will fade into the background. Turn it into a 10-mile day by heading up the Greg Ball Trail to Wallace Lake.

Photo by Terra Holcomb

32 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Spray Park Tucked into the upper northwest corner Chow Time of Mount Rainier National Park, Spray Park is During long miles on the trail, hunger celebrated as a garden sanctuary by flower seekers and photographers alike. Peak bloom kicks in, and while that energy bar is typically in August, when the greatest variety or handful of gorp satisfies for the of specimens and colors all intermingle. But moment, the mind really craves our the months before and after offer a shifting favorite things: burgers, milkshakes, colorscape sure to delight. As snows melt, a fresh salad. Afterwards, we usually blankets of avalanche lilies create vast carpets reward ourselves with our favorite carb- across the mountain meadows. Next come and calorie-loaded treats to refuel and lupine, harebell and fan-leafed cinquefoil, while satisfy. The following are but a tasty higher rock gardens fill in with bright mountain- sampling of how Washington's hikers heather, creeping phlox and penstemon. Near are filling the flavor craving. streams and ponds, blazes of monkeyflower abound. Autumn covers the hillsides with On trail snacks: stalks of pasque flower, as drying foliage adds a tapestry-like backdrop of color. With so much 34% Trail mix beauty, it’s no wonder this is a hikers’ favorite. 18% Energy bar Hurricane Ridge 16% Nuts & candy This favored destination in Olympic 12% Meat jerky National Park starts with a bang, high on hillsides covered with lupine amid stunted, 11% Dried fruit twisty trees. Atop the ridge, the scenery 9% Asst. others competes for hikers’ attention: the blankets of white, yellow, pink, orange, red, blue and purple wildflowers, or the surrounding panorama of Post-hike meal: mountains, valleys, glaciers, forest and ocean. Two trails let hikers immerse themselves in all 33% Burger this scenery: the 3-mile round trip to Hurricane Hill presents hikers with a stunning 360-degree 15% Pizza view, while the 5-mile round trip along Sunrise 12% Steak Ridge winds among sprawling flower gardens and wide valley views. Because of the delicate 9% Salad balance of weather here, hikers are likely to find some specimens unique to the Olympics, 7% Burrito like Flett’s violet and Piper’s bellflower, making 24% Asst. others Hurricane Ridge a top choice for flower hounds. Skyline Divide Post-hike thirst-quencher: The Mount Baker Wilderness hosts a 36% Water wonderful sampling of wildflowers, 26% Beer an element of remoteness, and an interesting mix of delicate specimens amongst alpine 9% Sports drink terrain. It will likely stay hidden away until late snowfields slowly melt out, but the Skyline 7% Iced tea Divide is not to be missed come the small 7% Soda pop window of wildflower opportunity. Following 2 miles of fairly steep and steady uphill grinding, 15% Asst. others the effort will be forgotten as soon as you pop into flower meadows sprinkled with daisy TOP to BOTTOM: Attention PCT hikers! Need to satisfy some and aster and wide views from the high ridge. Evening alpenglow illuminates the bigtime hunger and fuel up to get you to the Glacier lily, mariposa lily and fairy cartina are flower meadows at Spray Park, by Paul border? Stop into the Stehekin Landing for the possible finds here, as well as a vast display of Raymaker; Mule deer are often seen browsing among the wildflowers on PCT Burger (pictured). Loaded with four patties, creeping phloxes, penstemons and mountain- Hurricane Ridge, by N.Z. Bogues; The four slices of ham, four strips of bacon, cheese, heathers clinging closely to the rocky earth and late summer arrival of wildflowers an egg and all the fixings, this monster will load framed by Mount Shuksan, Mount Baker and on Mount Baker's Skyline Divide are you up and keep you moving. the San Juan Islands. sure to please the most ardent flower lovers, by Brett Baunton Water photo by Lauren Dawkins

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 33 Readers' Choice Color, Coast, and Berry Bliss By Mike Morrison, Aaron Theisen, David Fenstad & Andy Porter Sol Duc The trails around the Sol Duc River in Olympic National Park are not only part of one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier backpacking trips, but fortunately for blue- berry hounds, also a berry picker’s delight. The trails to Mink and Deer Lakes and Sol Duc Park are all frontloaded with fruit. Come September, easily meander At the peak of autumn, up any one of these through golden larch encircle the old-growth forest and scads of aptly-named Larch Lake in blueberries—just keep an eye the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. out for bears, too! Photo by Judy West Indian Heaven For thousands of years, native tribes gathered amongst Enchantment Lakes the meadows and marshes southwest of Mount Adams to Resplendent in summer and absolutely magical in fall, the Enchantments area once hunt, trade, socialize and pick again tops our list as the ultimate destination for seasonal color. For brilliant autumn larches, huckleberries. Today, families hike the less-difficult route up Icicle Creek to the Enchantments’ central section between Lake flock to Indian Heaven Wilderness Viviane and Aasgard Pass. This area can get snow as early as mid-September, creating a striking with buckets and water bottles contrast between sparkling granite rock, brilliant blue lakes and blazing yellow and orange in hand for those same berries. larch trees: a true photographers’ nirvana. Drop your tent near Leprechaun Lake and spend a Hit the sweet spot in late August, few days exploring the many lake basins, or scramble up any of the many surrounding peaks for after the mosquitoes have died unforgettable views of this wonderland of alpine scenery. down and before the foul fall weather, and the area more than Maple Pass lives up to its name. If you had to choose a season to hike the North Cascades’ Maple Pass Trail—summer or fall—the answer is simple: both. When the summer wildflowers are gone and the berries have Tonga Ridge all been eaten (by both hikers and local bears), the area transforms into an autumn paradise. East of Skykomish, an easy amble Huckleberry bushes turn flaming red and blanket the hillsides, while larch trees become radiant up the Tonga Ridge trail pays gold and highlight the slopes and ridges. Hike it after the first snow, before the road closes, for a off with tasty treats. Pickers can real autumn feast for the eyes. keep it in cruise control through most of the first 2 miles through Larch Lake huckleberry-hued meadows, while hikers looking to burn Rounding out readers’ top selections of fall color hikes, Larch Lake, tucked deep in the off some berries can follow the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, is said by many to be the most unspoiled area in the region. path to Mount Sawyer. Just like This could be because of the distance required to get there—a 12-mile one-way route from U.S. it’s been for thousands of years, Highway 2 (or a 6-mile route from the private Scottish Lakes High Camp). But once on site, visitors berry picking is a communal are treated to a meadowy lake basin filled with reds and golds, while the jagged peaks of the experience, making Tonga Ridge Chiwaukum Range reach for cobalt skies. a popular destination.

34 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Shi-Shi Beach & Point of arches The rugged and spectacular shoreline at Olympic's Shi-Shi Beach is dotted With an abundance of sea stacks and arches, wildlife galore, and some of the most with sea stacks and arches, and magical sunsets in the Northwest, it’s no wonder the trail to Shi-Shi Beach and Point interspersed with rocky tidepools of Arches tops our list of coastal hikes. Located in the Makah Indian Reservation at Neah teeming with a variety of sea life. Bay, the trail winds through wonderful, dripping forest, across boardwalks and atop a long Photo by Andy Porter bluff above the ocean before arriving at the entrance to Olympic National Park. Groups of sea stacks dot the coast, the wide expanse of Shi-Shi Beach arcing south to Point of Arches. INSET: Discover all manner of coastal Here, deer, bald eagles and a variety of sea life are common residents. Overnight beach sea creatures at Cape Alava, including camping is allowed with a permit and a bear canister. Before visiting, check in with the giant sunflower sea stars, by Mark Park Service to get details on permits, parking and obtaining a Makah Indian Reservation Fenn; The lighthouse at Dungeness Recreation Pass. Spit makes a delightful outing for the entire family, photo by Mike Morrison Cape Alava A wondrous combination of sea and forest, beach and grass, sea stacks and sky, the trail to Cape Alava offers a bounty of coastal scenery. Starting at the northern shore of Ozette Lake, the trail ambles through forest, over boardwalks and across coastal marsh and grasslands. Along the coast, wander among tidepools teeming with sea life, or watch the skies for gliding eagles. Whether you're day hiking or backpacking (with permit and bear canister), Cape Alava is a seaside treat for everyone.

Dungeness Spit North of Sequim in the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, the hike to the lighthouse at the end of Dungeness Spit makes for a glorious stroll along the sea and sand. Pass piles of tangled driftwood while watching for otters in the offshore kelp, as scores of seabirds drift overhead.

HIKE IT: Point of Arches After picking up your recreation pass, hike 1.75 miles through spruce forest and mushy bogs to the national park boundary. Descend the bluff to the beach and stroll south along the shore for 2 more miles to Point of Arches sea stacks and natural arches. Soak up the view.

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 35 Readers' Choice

OnlyBy Lucyin Shirley Washington

Paradise Meadows A plethora of trails around Mount Rainier’s Paradise Meadows showcases waterfall vistas, wildflower meadows and spectacular glaciers. These things easily make Paradise one of the best places to introduce visitors to the spectacular natural scenery found here in the Northwest.

The Nisqually Vista Loop, a family-friendly trail featuring a close-up view of the crumbling Nisqually Glacier, and Alta Vista Loop, under the towering summit of “The Mountain,” are great crowd-pleasers. Both are less than 1.5 miles and pass through lovely wildflower meadows while gaining only 200 and 540 feet of elevation, respectively. For more experienced visitors, the popular Skyline Loop is the trail of choice. This 6-mile trail offers views well worth the 1,400-foot ascent up the side of Mazama Ridge to Panorama Point. The trail also passes the Stevens-Van Trump Historical Monument—honoring the first climbers to summit Mount Rainier—and Sluiskin Falls; the descent passes Glacier Vista, a worthy side trip. This summer, WTA volunteers worked on improving drainage, reconstructing switchbacks, and installing wooden and rock steps to help keep these beloved trails open and accessible. Hoh Rain forest The Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park offers multiple hikes with relatively little elevation gain that pass through one of the most biologically diverse regions in the country, making it a spectacular place to show off to visiting family and friends. For a short, flat, all-ages trail, the Hall of Mosses showcases just what nature does with all the moisture it receives, with carpets of fern and curtains of moss and lichen. For a longer trip, the 10.6-mile Hoh River-Five Mile Island hike is a popular journey up the Hoh Valley, while the 6-mile South Fork Hoh River-Big Flat Trail offers more solitude.

Artist Point HIKE IT: Hall of Mosses When it comes to postcard-perfect views of the North Cascades, there is one place to take out-of-town From the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center, visitors: Artist Point on Mount Baker. Here, one truly feels embark on a variety of short and long trails what it’s like to be immersed in the “American Alps.” To to experience some of the last, and finest, insert visitors into the view, a variety of nearby trails invite temperate rain forest in the U.S. The 0.8-mile exploring. For a short outing, the 1.2-mile trip to Huntoon Hall of Mosses and 1.2-mile Spruce Nature Trail Point is sure to impress. The 8-mile Chain Lakes Trail offer interpretive displays showcasing a variety offers alpine lakes and wildflower meadows circling Table of Northwest rain forest flora and fauna. Mountain, while the 8.2-mile Lake Ann Trail visits a high Photo by Donald Jensen lake basin with in-your-face views of Mount Shuksan.

36 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Enchanted Valley Readers' Choice When it comes to viewing wildlife from the trail, it’s no surprise that Enchanted Valley tops our readers’ list. Carved by glaciers long ago, this magical, moss-covered valley deep in Olympic National Park is home to scores of wildlife, Wildlife including one of the largest herds of Roosevelt elk in the world. By Brittany Manwill Winding along the East Fork of the Quinault River, this & Aaron Theisen enchanting (hence the name) trail is distinguished by dense trees filtering sunlight onto the lush green forest floor, pocket meadows of tall grasses and wildflowers, and cascading Berkeley Park waterfalls streaming down rocky walls. When the valley fills with misty fog, it lends one to feel as if they’ve entered a fantastical No list of wildlife trails would be complete without world. Roosevelt elk, which are larger than their Rocky Mountain mentioning Mount Rainier’s Berkeley Park. Winding through a cousins, roam here in sizeable herds, especially in winter. Black deep valley flanked with green hillsides, Berkeley Park comes bears also frequent the area, as do black-tailed deer, harlequin alive in summer with colorful wildflowers and an abundance ducks, river otters and even the rarely seen mountain beaver. of roaming critters. Marmots run wild in the meadows, while Give yourself extra time to truly experience Enchanted Valley. coyotes and bears are commonly seen roaming just off the trails. Hike up to Anderson Pass and explore the higher lakes, or simply relax in the quiet valley, listening to the trickle of waterfalls and Mountain goat in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, viewing the beauty of wild animals in their natural habitat. by Mike Morrison; Black bear in the North Cascades, by Doug Diekema; Bull elk in Mount Enchantments Rainier National Park, by Owen Chase; Olympic marmots by Kelsie Donleycott For a hike where you're just as likely to encounter a mountain goat as you are another hiker, the place to be is the Enchantments. Well-known for its stunning alpine lakes and jagged granitic rockscape, this area also offers an abundance of wildlife. Thankfully, the strenuous trail and permit quotas help keep traffic down, ensuring that this picture-perfect wilderness remains untrammeled for its wildlife residents and the hikers who visit them. Favorite Critters 1. Mountain goats 2. Black bears 3. Elk 4. Marmots 5. Owls 6. Pikas 7. Wolves

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 37 Readers' Choice

Our InspirationBy Eli Boschetto Whether it’s a hair-raising survival story, an epic journey, or an idea-filled guidebook, Washington’s hiking community has a fondness for outdoors literature. And while there is no shortage of authors to choose from, for every type of armchair adventurer, there is one that resonates, rightly, above all others: John Muir. “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.” Recognized as the father of the conservation movement, the founder of the Sierra Club and instrumental in helping to designate Mount Rainier a national park, Muir has inspired millions through his advocacy efforts and poetically written essays. Within his collections, Muir describes in intimate detail the wonders of wilderness: from the grandness of the big trees to the delicacy of the smallest wildflower, from the glitter of sunshine on rock to the soothing sounds of wind and water. “Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.” Pick up any one of Muir’s books—Our National Parks, Journeys in the Wilderness, The Yosemite, Travels in Alaska—and you will be transported to a simpler, less-frenzied time where you can relax and bask in the wonders of nature. Then you may find your own inspiration to carry you forward and awaken your own newfound appreciation for all of Washington’s wild places. In this, it’s no wonder that John Muir has been selected as Washington Trails readers’ favorite author.

Following Muir, two more authors echo loudly among readers: Jon Krakauer and Edward Abbey. Krakauer is popularly known for his provocative Into Thin Air, detailing the nail-biting 1996 disaster on Mount Everest, and Into the Wild, the haunting supposition on the adventures, and demise, of Alexander Supertramp. Among Abbey’s most popular works, Desert Solitaire paints a vivid picture of the Southwest before the Colorado River was tamed, while The Monkey Wrench Gang offers a controversial, albeit fictional, account of environmental activism gone too far.

The list doesn’t end there. WT readers’ literary interests are as varied as the wildflowers in an alpine meadow— from autobiographical accounts by Joe Simpson (Touching the Void), Aron Ralston (127 Hours) and Bill Bryson (A Walk in the Woods), to historical literature by Henry David Thoreau (Walden), Aldo Leopold (A Sand County Almanac) and Wallace Stegner (Beyond the Hundredth Meridian), to our own local guidebook authors Ira Spring and Craig Romano, as well as countless others.

So the next time you find yourself homebound, perhaps whiling away the winter, pick up any one of these reader favorites and take your own adventure outdoors—from the indoors.è

38 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Readers' Choice On Writing and Hiking By Craig Romano

Saturated temperate rain forests and sunny sage-scented steppe; glacier-covered spiraling crags and rolling hills of oak-pine savannah; wild mountain ranges, wild islands, wild coastline, wild rivers, primeval forest and sprawling wildflower meadows—that’s why I love hiking Washington state. Consisting of unprecedented biological and geological diversity and an abundance of state and national parks and forests and wilderness areas—all traversed by thousands of miles of trails—Washington offers lifetimes of hiking experiences.

As an author for Mountaineers Books, I have made it my mission to introduce as many of those hiking destinations as I can to my fellow Washingtonians and visitors. By thoroughly hiking every trail that goes into my guidebooks—and researching each area’s natural and human history—I ensure that my readers can explore with confidence and appreciation our state’s wilderness areas, parks and forests. I want to share these places and trails for many reasons. I want readers to feel the beauty and redeeming qualities of wild places. And I want them to feel motivated upon becoming acquainted with these places to participate in their protection. A society that is bonded with nature is a healthy society. I’m convinced too that a society that values outdoor experiences is not only good for our wild and natural places (people will be willing to protect them) but also good for us (by living healthy and connected lives). I believe that we can change our world for the better, one hike at a time.

Craig Romano is author of nine Mountaineers Books, among them Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula, Day Hiking North Cascades, Day Hiking Columbia River Gorge, Backpacking Washington, and Columbia Highlands: Exploring Washington’s Last Frontier, recognized in 2010 as a Washington Reads book for its contribution to the state’s cultural heritage.

In the recent readers' choice survey, we asked what you liked best in Washington Trails, and what you wanted more and less of. The clear answer was you want more of everything and less of nothing. That tells us that you value the content that comes in every issue of Washington Trails—just what we like to hear. Right now we're planning for the next year of Washington Trails, and we think you're going to be pretty happy. Starting with the Jan+Feb issue, we'll be revealing the winners of the Northwest Exposure photo contest—and we've got a surprise in store for that. We're also adding new columns by some special guest contributors, and a series of features that will have you itching to hit the trails. You're not going to want to miss a single issue of Washington Trails next year. If you're due to renew, do it now at wta.org/renew. Or send Washington Trails as a gift to the hiker you know at wta.org/gift. See you on the trails in 2013!

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 39 Readers' Choice Lost &

SnapshotBy Kelsie Donleycott Found We've all done it. Gotten back to our car after a day hike or Could there be a better pairing than that of hiking and photography? Perhaps not—and backpack and found that we left readers agree that whether they are going light with iPhones, or hoisting a heavier load with a something behind in camp, or while full-size DSLR, cameras are a must when stepping foot on Washington’s trails. Abounding with stopping for lunch or a photo—a diversity, Washington’s wild places offer spectacular photographic opportunities. From high alpine hat, sunglasses, a lens cap, the tent. views and wild coastal seascapes—to everything in between—there is no lack of subject matter Chalk up another donation to the for the hiking photographer within the state. backcountry lost and found. On the flip side, we may have found In winter, destinations such as Mount Rainier’s Paradise or Olympic National Park’s Hurricane Ridge something—a hat, sunglasses, a allow easy access to high elevations where snow blankets vast mountain scenes. Winter is also a sleeping bag. The mountain taketh, fantastic time to travel to Washington’s coast where stormy weather whips the seas into a frenzy of and the mountain giveth back. action. Cold temperatures zap batteries, so be sure to pack plenty of spares. We asked WT readers to share what Spring brings rain and new growth, making the spectacular cascades of Wallace Falls rage and they've lost—and found—while hiking in our amazing mountains. early blooms of Eastern Washington and the Columbia River Gorge pop. For long exposures, bring Some things were typical, some a tripod and polarizer to slow down the action and capture the smooth flow of rushing water. To things were surprising, and some avoid wet gear, pack an umbrella to protect against spring showers. things were downright hilarious! By summer, melting snows are replaced by blooming wildflowers. For showy displays, check out the plethora of blooms at Mount Baker’s Skyline Divide or rhododendron-lined trails at Olympic Top 10 Lost National Forest’s Mount Townsend. If skies are clear, consider being on-trail for the golden hour— 1. The trail the first and last hour of sunrise and sunset—to capture the landscape bathed in warm hues. 2. Sunglasses 3. Car keys Fall announces itself with cooler weather and shorter days—bringing forth changing colors and 4. Camera increased wildlife activity. For one of the state’s best larch shows, visit Lake Ingalls in Teanaway. 5. Gloves Both the Hoh and Elwha Rivers in Olympic National Park are good bets for sightings of Roosevelt 6. Trekking poles elk, black bears and deer. Don’t shy away from unpredictable weather—rain, mist, fog and frost make for a genuine autumn scene. 7. Map or GPS 8. Water filter And—regardless of the season—don’t forget to turn the camera on yourself and your hiking 9. Knife or multitool companions from time to time. Capturing the smiling faces of hikers enjoying Washington’s diverse 10. Wedding ring natural beauty will certainly create treasured additions to your best photographic work.è Honorable Mentions u Ignition cable Photographer's u Sleeping pad u Boots Checklist u Sanity! ¨ Camera (any type) ¨ Lens(es) Top 10 found wide angle, macro, etc. 1. Peace 2. Berries ¨ Tripod lightweight if backpacking 3. The trailhead 4. Bears ¨ Extra memory cards 5. Soul mate ¨ Extra batteries 6. Sunglasses ¨ Filters 7. Camera polarizing, neutral density 8. Trekking poles 9. Map/GPS ¨ Remote release 10. Knife/multitool ¨ Carrying case(s) Honorable ¨ Rain gear Mentions personal and for gear u Wedding ring ¨ Cleaning supplies u Pack cover lens cloths, air blaster, etc. u Ice axe Kelsie Donleycott u Beer!

40 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org REI's Flash 52 women's Readers' Choice backpack offers all Lost & the features and load capacity of a larger pack in a lightweight, Found streamlined design. Great Gear $179 rei.com

Gear Up and Go When it comes to Washington’s hikers and backpackers, they know their gear. In our recent readers' survey, we asked what the favorites are among backpacks, outdoor apparel, general camping and hiking gear, hiking boots and socks. Not surprisingly, REI snatched the gold in every category (except socks, taking silver). That's not to say that a number of other quality brands aren't appreciated by readers as well. Here's how all the favorites stacked up. Backpacks Outdoor Gear 1. REI 1. REI 2. Osprey 2. The North Face 3. Gregory 3. Outdoor Research 4. Kelty 4. MSR 5. Deuter 5. Black Diamond

Apparel hiking boots & Socks

HIKE IT: Silver Star Mountain 1. REI 1. Merrell 1. Smartwool The roads to this popular Columbia Gorge trail 2. Columbia 2. Asolo 2. REI may be less than appealing, but the scenery from The North Face 3. Keen 3. Wigwam the trail more than compensates. Hike the 2-mile 3. mountain ridge—rife with wildflowers in summer 4. Patagonia 4. Solomon 4. Thorlo and seasonal color in autumn—to expansive views of South Cascades mountain peaks. 5. Mountain Hardwear 5. Garmont 5. Icebreaker Photo by Lauren Dawkins

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 41 Trail Mix In our own Backyard Did you know that the Northwest is just teeming with outdoor gear companies? And why not—we have some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in the country. Where else can you hike one day in coastal rain forest, and the next traverse a glacier to a high mountain peak? Right here. And these local companies can help you do it.

Cascade Designs | Seattle, WA Garmont | Portland, OR The name probably rings a bell, but you can’t quite put your Footwear manufacturer Garmont recently moved its North finger on it. You probably know them better by the brands Therm- America headquarters from Burlington, Vermont to Portland, a-Rest, MSR and Platypus. A Seattle institution since 1972, Cascade Oregon. They made this strategic move because “the progressive Designs was born of a challenge: mountaineer John Burroughs business climate, strong and innovative footwear community, tasked his engineering friends Neil Anderson and Jim Lea to design and year-round access to world-class hiking, climbing and skiing a better sleeping mattress for backcountry adventures. Hello destinations made it an ideal match for Garmont.” Therm-a-Rest. Based out of the Montebelluna region of northern Italy, Garmont More than 40 years later, Cascade Designs has proven to be a is a multigeneration, family-founded business that creates some of leader in the production of high-quality, high-standard outdoor the most highly respected footwear products available. Originally gear. And as a proud resident of the Northwest, Cascade Designs founded in 1964, they have spent many years believes in quality and efficiency. That is why many of their strictly focusing their energy on fine-tuning products are produced right in their Seattle factory; to serve comfortable and high-quality outdoor the European market, they have a factory in Cork, Ireland. This footwear and ski boots. Garmont fully stands eliminates wasteful overseas shipping expenses and helps keep behind all of their products and offers a one- jobs in the local communities. This also allows them to maintain the year warranty against defects in materials highest degree of control over their products to ensure the highest and workmanship. quality possible. Garmont is the first Of their brands, Therm-a-Rest, the original self-inflating Gold Sponsor of the mattress, continues to be a leader in the realm of camp sleeping Mountain Rescue comfort, offering a variety of innovative sleep system options Association (MRA), for every outdoor interest, from car camping to alpine exploring. a nonprofit safety MSR continues to push the limits in quality-engineered hiking and rescue training and backpacking gear, with everything from tents and stoves to Garmont and education program. snowshoes and water filters, while Platypus offers BPA-free water The MRA provides a crucial Momentum bottles and hydration bladders. Add to that SealLine’s bombproof service to all outdoor Icelock GTX gear storage accessories, PackTowl’s super-absorbent travel towels, enthusiasts, and through Hummingbird travel gear and Tracks walking and hiking staffs— Here is a winter hiking boot their partnership, Garmont and you can outfit any outing or expedition. that can handle sub-zero supplies the MRA with temperatures, but still provide everything they need for Cascade Designs’ commitment doesn’t end with their gear, the necessary feel and function year-round rescue efforts. of more demanding pursuits. but extends to the local and outdoors communities as well by Garmont is also teaming up promoting environmental responsibility. Through organizations With 600g of Thinsulate insulation, a Gore-Tex Koala with the Oregon Zoo, where such as Leave No Trace, the Conservation Alliance, American its employees are encouraged Whitewater, the Access Fund, Washington Trails Association and fleece lining, and the new Vibram Hypergrip IceLock to spend a day volunteering. many more, Cascade Designs’ goal is to “promote active outdoor outsole, it will keep hikers This year, employees spent recreation while protecting the public lands, wilderness areas, and comfortable and surefooted in time helping the zoo with waterways that sustain us all.” thermarest.com, icy, slick conditions. $190 its butterfly conservation msr.com & platypus.com program.

Garmont has been recognized time Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite and again by outdoor magazines The very first Therm-a-Rest was a revolution in outdoor sleeping for their amazing products and solutions. That revolution continues with the NeoAir XLite innovations. It’s a pleasure to welcome Mattress. This ultralight, ultra-comfortable sleeping pad such an influential company to keeps users warmer than ever by employing a unique the Pacific Northwest, and we look reflective layer to conserve warmth, ensuring plenty forward to all the amazing things of comfy backcountry z’s. $130–$180 Garmont will unveil in the years to come. garmontusa.com

42 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Gear Closet

REI | Kent, WA When it comes to outdoor gear companies found right here in the Northwest, no list would be complete without Recreational In our own Backyard Equipment, Inc., better known simply as REI. Founded in the By the WT Gear Team 1930s by a group of climbing friends with a passion for the outdoors, their objective was simple: to obtain and provide reliable mountaineering gear for a reasonable price.

Fast-forward more than 70 years, and REI is a trusted retailer and Outdoor Research | Seattle, WA synonymous with high-quality outdoor gear and apparel—as well In 1980, Ron Gregg’s climbing partner suffered severe frostbite as the largest consumer co-op in the United States. REI continues attempting an ascent of Denali due to poorly designed gaiters. to return the majority of its profits to its members through After his friend was airlifted off the mountain, Gregg sought a annual refunds based on their purchases, as well as supporting solution for an improved gaiter design. A year later, Outdoor numerous outdoor organizations—including WTA—through a Research (OR) was founded in Seattle and the X-Gaiter was created. variety of outreach, education, funding, volunteer and stewardship programs. REI is also a founding member of the Conservation The company had come a long way since the X-Gaiter, but in Alliance and a proponent of the PEAK (Promoting Environmental 2003, Gregg was tragically killed in an avalanche and the company Awareness in Kids) Program, in partnership with the Leave No Trace was sold to Dan Nordstrom. An avid skier and mountaineer, Center for Outdoor Ethics. Nordstrom continued OR’s concept of Designed by Adventure in producing superior gaiters, hand- and headwear, dry sacks and Popularly known for a wide assortment of high-quality, brand- stuff sacks, packs, and shell and insulated jackets. He also launched name gear and apparel, REI prides itself on its expert customer the Lab Rat program, encouraging users to provide product service and unprecedented satisfaction guarantee. Walk into any feedback directly to the designers, and helping to shape the needs REI retailer and you will be greeted by a friendly, professional and desires of their customer base with everything they need, and outdoorsperson eager to help you with everything from fitting everything they don’t. a backpack, to explaining portable stove options, to finding the perfect hiking boot. Seeking your complete satisfaction with every Not only does OR provide amazing technical clothing and item you purchase, some of the larger stores offer boot paths, gear, but they are also a huge advocate for numerous outdoor climbing walls, bike tracks and test areas for sampling gear. And and outreach organizations: Northwest Avalanche Center, Access if you don’t like it—for any reason, no questions asked—simply Fund, American Alpine Club, Leave No Trace, Washington Trails return it. That’s service! Association, and many of others. outdoorresearch.com REI’s employees don’t stop at just great retail service. They also offer workshops and seminars on a variety of topics to help people get the most out of their outdoors experiences—from OR Stormsensor Gloves basic camping education and outdoor photography to bike repair, navigation and wilderness first aid. They also sponsor outdoors No more frozen fingers when you pull out your smartphone to take a picture or events like National Trails Day and Adopt a Crag, as well as check your location. The new TouchTek volunteering thousands of hours in efforts to maintain hiking trails, leather palm is specially designed to restore wetlands and keep beaches clean. interact with touch-screen devices, while the water-repellant soft shell REI’s commitment to its members and the community is the keeps the moisture out, and the basis of their mission, to “inspire, educate and outfit customers for fleece lining keeps your digits a lifetime of outdoor adventures.” rei.com warm. $85

REI Quarter Dome T2 Plus Tent A long-time classic, REI's lightweight 2-person tent now offers even better comfort on just about any adventure. With two doors, two side vestibules, increased headroom and more floor space, this reinvented design minimizes weight while maximizing performance—without breaking the bank. $299

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 43 Sherpa Adventure Gear | Kent, WA Every gear company has a story, but not many reach around the globe to the mystical peaks of the Himalayas and into the hearts of the “people from the East,” the Sherpa. Staring at the weathered face of his uncle, Ang Gyalzen Sherpa th Sherpa, on a magazine cover commemorating the 50 anniversary of Sir Tspun Edmond Hillary’s first ascent of Everest, Tashi Sherpa decided it was time to Quarter-Zip share the Sherpa story with the world. In 2005, he founded Sherpa Adventure Gear in honor of the many Nepalese Sherpa, who risk their lives helping A WT gear team climbers reach these extremely dangerous Himalayan summits but rarely favorite, this silky- soft baselayer will receive recognition or adequate compensation for their heroic services. quickly become one Sherpa Adventure Gear is located in Kent, Washington, and produces a of your favorites as full line of high-quality, carefully crafted outdoor gear and clothing. Sherpa well. Constructed of Dry Zone polyester, artisans are contracted to create their handmade wool hats, while Sherpa it keeps you dry and athletes are chosen to test every single piece of gear, so you know it’s comfortable, while being put through some of the most demanding conditions imaginable. minimizing odor, mile Your soul will also be comforted knowing that a percentage of every item after mile, trail after sold is donated to the Paldorje Education Fund, which provides head start trail. Also for women as scholarships to underprivileged Sherpa children. sherpaadventuregear.com the Dikila model. $55

Gear Aid | Bellingham, WA It's not always about having the newest gear that comes rolling into the local outdoor store. Sometimes it's about making what you have last from season We extend our thanks to to season by exercising a little TLC and maintenance. That's exactly what the Bellingham-based company McNett was thinking when they introduced Gear Aid. WTA’s Corporate Partners For more than 30 years, McNett has been producing Rainier - $25,000+ specialty products to help outdoor enthusiasts get more use out of their hiking, fishing and watersport equipment. As an advocate and steward of the outdoors, McNett produces all of their products in the most environmentally-friendly methods possible, including creating biodegradable formulas, using recycled materials in their packaging and by purchasing carbon offsets for 100% of their power usage. And to help Olympic - $10,000-$24,999 introduce youth to the outdoors, they have developed their own Take a Kid Outside Program. mcnett.com/gearaid

Gear Aid Waterproofing Soak At the end of a long season of hiking in the Northwest, your rain gear and tent fly have likely taken a beating. With a simple treatment of the new Waterproofing Soak (see page 49) you can Cascade - $2,500-$9,999 prolong your articles' lives and prepare them for the next season.

Alpine - $1,000-$2,499 HikingBoots.com, The Mountaineers Books, The Noble Fir, MSR® and Therm-a-Rest®

To find out how your company can support WTA’s work for trails, please call us at (206) 625-1367 or email [email protected].

44 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Leatherman | Portland, OR More in the NW Leatherman has been headquartered in Arc'teryx Vancouver, B.C. Performance apparel and backpacks Portland since its beginning in 1983. Founders arcteryx.com Tim Leatherman and Steve Berliner had a goal to create a reliable pocket survival tool capable of Atlas Snowshoes Seattle, WA numerous functions. The result: the Leatherman. Leatherman Snowshoes Juice C2 atlassnowshoe.com Since that small beginning, Leatherman has come a long way, with more than 30 models of A sweet pocket-sized multitool, the Juice C2 has everything you Columbia Portland, OR multitools and a 90,000-square-foot building in need for an outdoor adventure: Outdoor apparel and footwear which to create these handy items. Proud of their knife, pliers, can opener, Phillips columbia.com Portland roots, they support local community screwdriver, and more. $60 organizations like the Portland Timbers soccer Crescent Down Works Seattle, WA team and the Portland Fire Department. They also Insulated down products support the National Outdoors Leadership School, crescentdownworks.com Habitat for Humanity, Tread Lightly, and a variety Crispi Boots Bend, OR of other outreach programs. leatherman.com Italian-made hiking footwear crispiusa.com Beyond | Seattle, WA ExOfficio Seattle, WA When you’ve tried them all and nothing seems Performance apparel to fit, you need to go beyond the typical gear exofficio.com manufacturer. Yes, custom-fitted adventure clothing is a reality, and in some cases, it’s a Exped Seattle, WA necessity. However, you don’t need to go far, you Camping and backpacking gear exped.com just need to go to Beyond, in Seattle, Washington.

Climber and skier Scott Jones founded Beyond First Ascent Bellevue, WA in 1996, completely focused on fulfilling this need. Midrange apparel eddiebauer.com After many years of research and continuous design refinements, Beyond has created a line Green Trails Maps Seattle, WA of completely customizable outdoor apparel Topographic hiking maps and apps to address people’s specific needs and sizes. greentrailsmaps.com All of Beyond’s articles are made responsibly right here in the U.S., customized to your exact Hilleberg Seattle, WA specifications, and come with a 100 percent Beyond Swiss-made, high-quality tents Right-Fit guarantee. Their articles are of such Baker Jacket hilleberg.com top quality that they have been recognized Wish for a waterproof puffy? by both Backpacker and Climbing magazines. Beyond's got you covered with Innate Vancouver, B.C. Water, food and travel storage beyondclothing.com the Baker Jacket. Have it tailored specifically to your personal fit innate-gear.com and you’re good to go. Mountain House | Kavu Seattle, WA Casual and outdoor apparel Mountain House Albany, OR kavu.com Wraps Did you know that the meal you recently It’s simple: just bring your own Keen Portland, OR enjoyed in the backcountry was cooked, freeze- tortillas, shredded cheese, and Casual and outdoor footwear dried, and packaged right here in the Northwest? other accouterments, along keenfootwear.com Are you aware that the world’s leader in freeze- with a package of Chicken Fajita drying technology is located just south of Filling—and voilà! A new taste MaryJanesFarm Moscow, ID Portland? That’s right, Oregon Freeze Dry, Inc., the treat on the trail. $7 Organic backpacking food makers of Mountain House brand foods, resides in maryjanesfarm.org Albany, Oregon. Mountain Gear Spokane, WA Employing more than 300 people, Mountain Discount web retailer House takes pride in being a privately owned, mountaingear.com progressive, quality-conscious company. For over 30 years, they have been creating delicious freeze- Northside Seattle, WA dried foods for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. Affordable outdoor footwear Not only does Mountain House freeze-dried food northsideusa.com feed hikers, backpackers and climbers, but their Pendleton Portland, OR products and technology have also been critical Wool apparel and blankets for military personnel and preparing people for pendleton-usa.com emergency situations. mountainhouse.com

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 45 WT ’s Holiday

Gear Guide It's that time again, when shopping mall parking lots start filling up and your mailbox starts overflowing with catalogs. Well, we're offering some gift suggestions for the outdoor lovers on your shopping list, and you won't even need to get in your car. We've compiled an assortment of amazing outdoor items that are sure to please everyone from casual day hikers to the most ardent ultralight backpackers. You might just find a gift for yourself in here. The best part is that you can find all of these items listed atwta.org/gearguide , with easy links to purchase at some of your favorite outdoor retailers. And by purchasing through our gift guide, you'll also be supporting Washington's trails, as a percentage of every purchase helps support WTA's efforts to keep hiking trails maintained and accessible across the state, all year long. Visit wta.org/gearguide, or scan the QR code with your mobile device, and finish shopping early this season!

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Big Agnes has done something extraordinary: they took what was an already amazing ultralight 2-person tent and made it remarkably better! The pre-2012 Copper Spur UL2 weighed in at a very respectable 3lbs 13oz, so one would assume there probably wasn’t much to cut. But Big Agnes somehow found a way to trim off a whopping 12oz! By lowering the height of the tent on one side, this helped reduce the amount of tent fabric, fly fabric and pole material needed, allowing them to shave off a dozen unnecessary ounces. Plus, the addition of bright orange trim makes the tent much easier to see from afar, and the color-coded poles and tabs make setup even quicker. The result is an even more magical version of one of the best ultralight tents available. $400 bigagnes.com

BioLite CampStove A recent star at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Marketplace, the new BioLite CampStove is now available—just in time for the holidays. This revolutionary backpacking stove requires no fuel, since it's powered by organic matter that you can collect around your campsite: twigs, pinecones, dry brush, etc. This eliminates the need to carry and use fuel canisters, hence reducing carbon emissions and empty canister waste. The entire unit packs within itself and is comparable in size to a 1-liter water bottle. It's also capable of boiling that liter of water in just 4.5 minutes. And while that water is boiling, the integrated USB port recharges your smartphones or other USB-compatible devices. Now you can cook your dinner, roast some marshmallows over a campfire, and juice up your iPod in the backcountry with just one device! $129 biolitestove.com

Deuter Fox Youth Backpacks Tired of your kids outgrowing their backpacks every season? Well, here is the last backpack you will ever need to buy them. Modeled after Deuter's larger adult varieties, the Fox series of youth backpacks employs the unique Alpine Back and Vari Quick Systems. Fully adjustable, the pack can grow with your kids and stay with them season after season. Plus, it's loaded with features that they'll love, including a wet pocket for soggy swimsuits, a valuables pocket for their iPod, a large hydration sleeve for on-the-go sipping, and side pockets for stashing trail snacks. Plus, it's constructed of heavy-duty Deuter Ripstop and Ballistic materials that can take a beating and keep racking up the trail miles. Treat your kids—and yourselves—to a pack that will keep on giving. 30L: $100; 40L: $110 deuter.com

Fatcat PowerBar 4200 With so many new topo map apps (check out Green Trails' MAPPS at greentrailsmaps. com) for smartphone-using hikers out there, it's more important that ever to make sure your device stays charged up. A digital map is no good if the digital device has a dead battery, which can occur rapidly with a GPS-enabled device. Enter the PowerBar by Fatcat. These ultra-small, ultralight recharging devices fit in any corner of a pocket or pack. The 4200 model carries enough juice for at least two full recharges of an iPhone or Android; the 9600 can fully recharge an iPad. Each comes with a full complement of recharging adaptors to work with most devices. Keep the gadget-user you know charged up and on the go! 4200: $70; 9600: $120 fatcatgear.com

46 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org MSR Trail Lite Duo System MSR has been redefining stoves and cookware since the beginning, but one thing they’ve been focusing on lately is creating systems that fit the individual and the activity. Early next year will see the introduction of a new line of cookware that will be sure to please even the most critical gear junkie. Simple and light, yet complex and sturdy, the entire kit nests together to save valuable room in your pack. Inside the anodized aluminum pot fit two insulated mugs and two DeepDish bowls. You can even fit your ultralight canister stove and folding utensils as well. Plus, the entire kit weighs in at only 21.8 ounces, so you're cutting not only space, but weight too. Due out in January, this is the cook kit you'll want to save those holiday gift cards for! $60 msr.com

Timberland Radler Insulated Camp Boots After spending the day tromping through the snow, where your boots are damp and your feet are cold, there's nothing quite as nice as slipping into a warm pair of booties. Timberland's Radler camp boots zip together for ease of packability and are constructed with 400 grams of Thermolite insulation. With a beefy sole of Green Gripstick Rubber (42% recycled material) and treated with Ion-Mask to increase water repellency, these boots won't be slipping around on uneven terrain or snow. Perfect for winter car camping, alpine base camping, or throwing on after a day on the slopes or tracks, these boots will be appreciated by any outdoor lover on your gift list—and you'll probably want a pair for yourself too! $95 timberland.com

Hiking the Wonderland Trail It's been on their—or your—hiking life-list for years, and in 2013 they—or you—are finally going to pull the trigger: Mount Rainier's Wonderland Trail. This hot-off-the- presses guidebook is everything the aspiring Wonderland hiker needs to know about the classic 93-mile trip: itinerary planning, food caching, conditioning and contingency Check out these great preparedness. Not to mention a nearly step-by-step description of everything from the variety of flora and fauna inhabiting ”The Mountain,“ to the unique geology gear items from all your of this glacier-capped and -carved volcanic landscape. Penned by Washington favorite brands. Trails correspondent and Mount Rainier expert Tami Asars, this is the guidebook for Visit wta.org/gearguide anyone looking to knock off a section or the whole round-the-mountain trail. $22 mountaineersbooks.org or scan the QR code above with your mobile device and shop now. Grand Shelters Icebox And remember, every After years of experimenting with various types of snow structures for winter camping, Grand Shelters of Longmont, purchase helps maintain Colorado, came up with this relatively simple tool to create your own igloo—the Icebox. The Icebox’s design allows you to Washington’s trails! form your igloo in the ideal catenary shape by packing and stacking snow in just the right fashion. By adjusting the length of the tool, users are able to create a perfect igloo in various heights and sizes, capable of sleeping up to six people. Only 6 inches of snow is needed to use the Icebox, and the near-effortless procedure ensures you won't tire yourself out in the process (average 1.5 to 3 hours construction time, depending on snow conditions). Plus, the entire tool kit is lighter than most 4-season tents. Now you won’t be kept up on windy nights by a flapping tent, and the air temperature inside stays significantly warmer than in a tent. The Icebox igloo tool can be used for the avid snow camper or for fun with the family and kids. $180 grandshelters.com

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 47 Trail Eats Fall brings crisp days and cold evenings. It also brings Thanksgiving and hearty appetites. Put a little holiday cheer in your wilderness outings this season with some of these festive flavors. | Sarah Kirkconnell

Harvest Rice Pumpkin and Cranberry Pear Compote Gingersnap Pudding Ingredients: Ingredients: u 1 cup instant rice Ingredients: u 1/4 cup dried cranberries u 1 cup instant brown rice u 2/3 cup dry milk u 1/4 cup dried pears, chopped u 1/2 cup freeze-dried vegetables u 1/4 cup brown sugar u 2 Tbsp. brown sugar u 2 Tbsp. homemade broth mix or 2 tsp. lower u 3 Tbsp. cornstarch or favorite thickener u 1/4 tsp. dried orange zest sodium chicken bouillon u 2 Tbsp. dried and powdered pumpkin puree u Pinch sea salt u 2 tsp dried parsley u 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon u Pinch sea salt u Big pinch ground nutmeg At home: Pack the ingredients in a snack bag or pint u Big pinch ground ginger freezer bag, depending on Also take: u Big pinch salt u 5 oz. can or 7 oz. pouch chicken cooking method. u 1 Tbsp. or packet olive oil Also take: Insulated Mug or Bowl Method: u 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts u 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter Add the ingredients to an insulated mug or u 1 bag crisp gingersnap cookies small bowl, cover with 1/4 cup water. Cover and At home: let rehydrate for 20 to 30 minutes. If a bit dry, Pack the rice ingredients in a sandwich bag At home: add a little more water as needed. or quart freezer bag, depending on cooking Pack the pudding ingredients in a sandwich bag. method. Mark "Add 2 1/2 cups water" on bag. Tuck the butter in a small bag. Freezer Bag Method: One-Pot Method: Bring the water to a boil, set aside. Place the One-Pot Method: Add the chicken, with any broth, water and oil to freezer bag in a cozy, add the water and seal Add the mix and 2 cups cold water to a cooking a cooking pot. Bring to a boil, add the rice bag, bag. Let rehydrate for 20 to 30 minutes. If a bit pot. Using a small whisk, stir while bringing return to boil. Turn off the stove, cover tightly dry, add a little more water as needed. Serves 2. to boil over a lower flame. When the pudding and let sit for 15 minutes. In cooler weather or at comes to a boil and is thick, take off the stove altitude insulate the pot with a pot cozy. Stir the and whisk in the butter. Serve warm or let cool rice, top with the walnuts. (a cold stream or snowbank works well). Freezer Bag Method: Bring the water to a boil, set aside. Place the Divide between mugs or bowls—or in a pinch freezer bag in a cozy, add the oil, water and served in pint freezer bags. Crumble up some of chicken (with any broth). Stir well, seal and let sit the gingersnaps, dust on top, serve with the rest Sarah Kirkconnell is the author of Trail Cooking for 15 minutes. To make a second ”bowl“ bring to dip in the pudding. Serves 2 to 4. Made Simple. For more trail-worthy recipes for another freezer bag, cut in half. Divide the rice your next adventure visit trailcooking.com. And for and top with the walnuts. Serves 2. Notes: a full-blown Thanksgiving feast on trail, visit www. Dried pumpkin? Easy! Spread a can of organic trailcooking.com/content/thanksgiving-trail. Notes: pumpkin puree on a parchment paper-lined This recipe can be adapted to a vegan option baking sheet, and dehydrate in your oven at lowest Sarah's extra tip: If you want a cheater trail by leaving omitting the chicken and adding in temperature until bone dry, then powder. Store dessert, look for the tiny pecan pies sold at chickpeas if desired, or more nuts. Use the same tightly sealed. convenience stores and gas stations. These little amount of water called for. sugar bombs make a great treat!

48 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org How-To Clean it. Store it. It's inevitable. Winter is coming. That means you're probably faced with cleaning and putting away that big pile of hiking gear that's sitting in your garage, basement or guest bedroom. But in order to keep your gear in top shape so it will be ready for next season, you'll want to thoroughly clean and maintain your gear. Here are a few tips for making sure your gear will be clean and ready to go next season.

Freshen Up All that dirt and sweat took a toll on your layers, and they probably smell a little funky too. In the Northwest's varied weather and climate, it's important that your layers function to the best of their design and ability. To ensure their longevity, use a specialized detergent for the articles you're cleaning. For performance wicking layers and socks, use Nikwax Base Fresh to revitalize their breathability, ensuring you stay dry. For midlayers and DWR-treated articles, follow the cleaning directions and use a product like Nikwax Tech Wash. If your articles are extra- funky, chase those odors away with Gear Aid MyraZyme Odor Eliminator. Bag those Bags After a long season of sleeping in your sleeping bag, it's probably gotten a little stale, and is in need of a wash. Wash your bag according to its specific directions. Use a commercial or front-loading washing machine to handle the large load, and select the gentle cycle. Also, use a specialized detergent for your kind of bag; use ReviveX Down Cleaner for down bags, or ReviveX Synthetic Cleaner for synthetic bags. Use the spin cycle twice to get as much water out of the bag as possible, then dry on low heat. For down bags, toss a couple tennis balls in to help break up the clumps and restore loft. You will likely need 2–3 drying cycles. Once completely dry, store your bag in the large, fabric storage sack it likely came in, in a cool, dry location. This will allow the bag to breathe, and will help maintain its loft. Avoid storing your bag in its compression or stuff sack. Treat it Well No doubt your gear got a little wet and dirty this year, especially in those spring and early summer months. All that mud and moisture wears away at the water repellancy of your boots, rain shells and tent flys. To help maintain their effective water repellancy, use a specialized product for the item you're cleaning. For leather and Gore-Tex boots, remove the footbeds and clean them thoroughly then treat with ReviveX Water Repellant and Leather Conditioner. For rain gear and tent flys, treat with Gear Aid Waterproof Soak. It couldn't be simpler: fill sink or tub, add treatment, soak article, dry. If you notice any seam leaks, fix with a small amount of Seam Grip or Tenacious Tape. Before storing, make sure both your tent and fly are completely dry. This will prevent mold and mildew from accumulating while put away. Keep it Organized Instead of shoving all your gear into a closet or attic, organize your gear with smart storage. You can purchase a variety of inexpensive Rubbermaid plastic bins and organizers that will help you keep your gear sorted for everything from short dayhikes to long thru-hikes. Keep small bins for little items like head lamps, multi-tools and other accessories. Keep another for first aid supplies. Use medium bins for cooking and hydrating gear and large bins for your packs and larger items. Keep a separate bin for your Ten Essentials, so it will always be at the ready. For clothing and fabric articles, punch a few holes along sides to help keep items from becoming musty while in storage. Large closet organizers are also ideal for helping categorize and store gear for easy access. Then when next spring comes and you're ready to hit the trail, your gear is waiting for you to grab and go.è

Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org 49 Readers' Choice More! More, more, more! Through the pages of this issue's Readers' Choice section, we shared the top picks among some of the best that Washington has to offer hikers and backpackers. But that was just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. There are hundreds, ney, thousands, of trails across the state, each with their own beauty and appeal. Call them the runners-up, honorable mentions or just-behind-bronzers, here are even more of your Appendix selections to help you get out and enjoy the finest of Washington's wild places.

State Parks Day hikes waterfalls

u Sun Lakes–Dry Falls - Channeled Scablands u Lake Ingalls - Alpine Lakes u Palouse Falls - Channeled Scablands

u Beacon Rock - Columbia Gorge u Dog Mountain - Columbia Gorge u Spray Falls - Mount Rainier

u Cape Disappointment - Southwest coast u Skyline Divide - Mount Baker u Loowit Falls - Mount St. Helens

u Dosewallips - Olympics u Yellow Aster Butte - Mount Baker u Murhut Falls - Olympic

u Larrabee - North Puget Sound u Glacier Basin - Mount Rainier u Otter Falls - Snoqualmie Pass

u Moran - San Juan Islands u Goat Lake - Mountain Loop u Falls Creek Falls - South Cascades

u Mount Spokane - Eastern Washington u Sahale Arm - North Cascades

u Kendall Katwalk - Snoqualmie Pass wildflowers Wilderness u Snowgrass Flat - South Cascades u Columbia Hills - Columbia Gorge

u William O. Douglas - Central Cascades u Lake Serene - Stevens Pass u Flower Dome - Glacier Peak

u Wild Sky - Central Cascades u Snowgrass Flat - Goat Rocks

u Salmo-Priest - Colville Backpacks u Naches Peak - Mount Rainier

u Colonel Bob - Olympics u Sawtooth Ridge - Blue Mountains u Hart's Pass - Pasayten

u Pasayten - Northeast Cascades u Lyman Lakes - Glacier Peak u Esmeralda Basin - Teanaway

u Goat Rocks - South Cascades u Summerland - Mount Rainier

u Indian Heaven - South Cascades u Loowit Trail - Mount St. Helens wildlife

u Kettle Crest - Okanogan u Sullivan Lake - Colville

Coast Areas u Enchanted Valley - Olympic u Paradise - Mount Rainier

u Ruby & Rialto Beaches - Olympic u Seven Lakes Basin - Olympic u Sahale Arm - North Cascades

u Fort Flagler - Quimper Peninsula u Horseshoe Basin - Pasayten u High Divide - Olympic

u Orcas Island - San Juans u Stevens to Snoqualmie - PCT u Olympic Coast - Olympic

u Ebey's Landing - Whidbey Island u Shedroof Divide - Salmo-Priest u Oak Creek - Yakima

Grady and Emma's lemonade stand

50 Washington Trails | Nov+Dec 2012 | wta.org Featured ‘Scape

HIKE IT u The Goat Rocks Wilderness is one of the true gems of Washington state, and one of the best places to get good views of Mount Adams. I especially love this area because Sheep Lake not only do I get the fantastic views, but I can also hike with my dog. For this trip, I Location: hiked the 9-mile round trip to Sheep Lake. There's also an option for a 15-mile loop Goat Rocks Wilderness incorporating a stretch along the Pacific Crest and Walupt Lake trails. Distance: I captured this photo on a side trip one night as we hiked from Sheep Lake to Lake 9-mile out-and-back Corral and back. It was getting late as we hit the PCT on our way back to camp and or 15-mile loop Mount Adams was lit up beautifully by the fading sunlight. Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet — Jeremiah Pierucci Map: Green Trails 335: Walupt Lake Permit: Have an amazing landscape photo you’d like to share with Washington Trails readers? Send a NW Forest Pass hi-res sample with a brief description to [email protected], with “Featured Landscape” as the subject.

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