12.5 miles of hiking • 3250' elevation gain •
Got a really late start, and didn't hit the trailhead until nearly 1pm. Which turned out perfect, as the clouds were just moving away from Hood's summit as I turned off 26 in Zigzag. Winding up Salmon River Rd, the pavement was steaming, and it seemed like a huge downpour had just passed through. Pretty well validates that sleeping in can actually be compatible with hiking!
Love this hike, for the incredible serenity as you gradually climb up through the forest. The first/last stretch along the reclamation-in-process roadbed is neither irritating or inviting, but it passes pretty quickly. Otherwise, the entire trip is just a delight. Easy to keep up a 3.0-3.5mph moving average, keeping the heartrate in the vigorous zone the entire way.
Saw some cool forest plants, the rhodies are just passing their peak but still pretty vigorous over 3400', and just enough beargrass up top to make the summit shots interesting. First time I'd been there with a view. (Previously, it was socked in, and a "wintry mix" was blowing in the wind.) Eight stratovolcanoes visible, ranging from Rainier to the Three Sisters.
Had a little lunch, then blew back down. For as crowded as the trailhead was (maybe 50 cars?), the trail itself offered remarkable solitude. Must've been that many were just camping along the river. All in all, another incredibly great day in the woods!
