TRAPPERS PEAK | 16 SEPT
With winter on its way in the North Cascades, I have been trying to fit as many hikes in as possible before they are covered in snow and Hwy 20 closes for the season. Unfortunately, this year has put more focus on home renovation (posts to come) and gardening than hiking, so the push is a little late in the season. I was going to do a few other hikes on my week off, but thunderstorms and snow forced me to change my plans. I could have continued on, but the views would be absent. In any case, hopefully the precipitation will help knock down the Diamond Creek fire, as well as others.
SATURDAY: Trappers Peak
The trail is just over 5 miles of up up up for over 3,000 ft gain. The first 4.5 miles are through forest, steadily working up short switchbacks that are covered with boulders and tree roots. Just before the turnoff for Trappers Peak—or Thornton Lakes—the trail opens up to fields of berries. Initially, the 0.7 mile trail to the summit of Trappers Peak is an easy uphill, following a narrow trail until it reaches the first scramble, some areas with 63-71% grade. The trail continues along a rocky path, with a few more scrambles. The trail is definitely not for those afraid of heights, but it is well worth the effort to make it to the top, bringing views over the Thornton Lakes (three) and Skagit River. In addition, I was rewarded with a 360 view showing Mt Triumph, Mt Despair, Thornton Peak, X Mountain, and the Pickets.
After a late start to get to the trailhead, I managed to snag the last spot in the parking lot. Soon after I arrived, more cars did as well, lining the road to the small trailhead (it fit 6-8 cars). I set out around 9:30AM, the skies still filled with fog and a little smoke. The first two miles is solid green on a well maintained path.
As the trail climbs, the forest around me opened up. A typical Washington forest, with the sound of streams and birds at every corner. The switchbacks start and the trail is painted with roots and boulders. I like to think that I am not the clumsiest of people, but those roots seem to come alive and grab you by the ankle when you are least expecting it. It is amazing that I haven't sprained an ankle yet.
Not exactly what I want to see when I park my car.
Soon after passing the national park boundary, I the trail opens. I decided no to make my way down to the lake today and instead follow the trail to Trappers Peak. The trail is only 0.7 miles from the the fork, but it ends up taking longer than expected due to scrambling and what seemed like a constant up and down of the trail.
Lower Thornton Lake comes into view early on. The first scramble is fairly easy to maneuver when going up, with plenty of hand holds and solid footings. It is also challenging enough to remind me that I need to work more on upper body strength, overall fitness, and losing weight. In any case, this girl made it up with not too much of an issue. Once at the top, the trail opened up more, exposing the mountains in the surrounding area.
Soon, the Picket Range peaks into view for short periods, its full beauty yet to be seen. Dried tarns, patches of blueberries, fall color starting to settle in. The full depth of mountains were still shielded by smoke and clouds.
With less than a quarter mile until the summit, I found myself questioning if I should keep going. My knees hurt. My feet hurt. And the crossing above made me a little bit nervous. I am not afraid of heights, but I am a cautious person. I told myself that the views were already incredible, could they really get better? Would it be worth it?
The final climb to the summit. The cairn marking the top comes into view.
The answer to those questions is YES. It was worth it. That is the problem I have found with hiking solo. Without a friend(s) or partner to boost confidence levels and push you to see more, do more, and learn more...I have to dig deeper. I would never push myself to do something that I thought was too risky. Sometimes you just need that helpful voice to say "you can do this," when you are sore, tired, and sweaty.
