14.5 miles of hiking • 2000' elevation gain •
Started off at Johnston Ridge Observatory early, undecided as to whether I'd try for Loowit Falls or Coldwater Peak. Had initially intended to scope out Mt Margaret snow levels for next week's hike, but have been wanting to head out to the base of the crater for some time. the hike along the blast zone was phenomenal, had actually never done that one before, but the descent to Loowit proved hot and dusty. i got bored and decided to head back up towards Coldwater. Still some snow on the trail over St Helens Lake, especially in one sketchy traverse, but overall easily manageable. Lots of hikers out, perfect weather, could see Saddle mountain, the olympics, and a whole lotta snow on Goat Rocks. Mt Margaret looked mostly melted out, but I might wait on that one. Long hot hike back to the car, a great day.
