April 23 2012

Notes by Jim R

Photos by John D, Ed W, Neil D, Bob A, Rick B, Jim R

There were some moments where the sticks and waterproof boots were very important

The morning was glorious. I ran out of fingers and toes in trying to determine how many mountain goats were with us this date. So, it was more than 20 in I believe 6 cars. After an on-time Bremerton airport departure, we arrived at what some thought was the trailhead. But wait, the MOUNTAIN GOATS in one car started a rebellion – something like they did not want to start here as it’s a steep hill – better to start further UP the road near the horse trailhead. While, it’s unknown whom were the protestors the car……….

We left the airport at 8:00 and were on the trail by 9:15. Here we are unloading – before all the cars moved to the horse trailhead. And the trailhead sign.

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as presented by Neil D

April 16, 2012

Hello Monday Hikers and friends,

Photo credit, nd, Hurricane Hill Hike

Seven Mountain Goats squeezed into Jim’s van for the trip to the Elwha River and the Hurricane Hill Trailhead. Driving up Olympic Hot Springs Road it was hard not to notice the dark color of the water in the river. Was the murky water the result of heavy snow melt from recent warm weather or was it coming from the demolition work at the Glines Canyon Dam? Absent any authoritative report, we had to settle for the supposition that both were probably contributing.

We got on the trail a few minutes before ten and were a little surprised to find it mostly dry—just a few small wet spots. The trail is steep and steady with many long traverses and precious few level sections to provide legs and lungs a few moments respite. The forest is somewhat open at ground level where the trail runs beneath large Douglas fir and through sparse undergrowth. Only occasionally could nearby hills be seen due to the thick canopy and the steep grade.

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