8 miles of hiking • 3500' elevation gain •
We set out around 9:15a, returned at 4p. We started at the Aldrich Butte TH (I use the term trailhead loosely!) and had a great hike up and up and up! The boulder field was easily navigated and we enjoyed the challenge for sure. It was a clear day with lots of blue skies and mountain views at the top. We saw Mt. Hood, Mt. Jefferson (just poking out in the distance), Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Rainier, and Mt. Adams from the top. Stunning views of the Gorge, too.
Instead of going back the way we came, we did a lollipop, heading down a steep, rocky, slippery way before reconnecting with the trail near the boulder field. We came back down and then connected with the PCT again before hitting the main trail back to the car.
It was a long day, a difficult trail, but the views and the weather made it worth the energy exerted!
Elsie
July 23, 2013
Sweet! :)