A rainy day yesterday made for a cool and cloudy hike today. We saw lots of big toads, huckleberries, and some ghost pipes. The trail is in great condition - the recent brushing work by WTA is still evident.

The big washout is the same as it's been for years. Zigzagging across the big logs can be fun, but right now, it is very easy to walk across the creek using some well placed rocks. Simply cross the first big log and then descend down to the left to find the relatively easy creek crossing.

BTW, keep your eyes peeled on the drive in and out. One of the clear cuts above the road has quite possibly the most fireweed I've EVER seen in one place - absolutely solid as far as you can see up the hill.  

Walked this trail on a semi cloudy summer day. Walked with dog Milo Chihuahua and 6 year old. Only made it to the suspension bridge, crossed it, and then returned the way we came. Easy walk, saw a couple birds but did not run into any other wildlife. There is a "cave" on the left hand side of the trail about 100 yards from the bridge. Definitely dark and we all questioned if something lives in there. Didn't have a flash light so unable to see. Water was gorgeous and rapidly flowing. 

This was a 4-day WTA trail maintenance trip focused on brushing the trail corridor and removing overhangs and obstacles. This trail is currently in excellent condition, and possibly the best condition it will see for years to come (depending on continued USFS/WTA funding).

Be aware there is one significant river crossing about halfway up the trail. I recommend going across the massive, zig-zag of downed trees above the river as they are quite wide and have good bark traction (see photo). Alternatively, you can descend down to the river itself and cross on river rocks (might get your feet wet) or backtrack slightly down the trail and take a left onto a side path that crosses a slightly smaller downed log without bark across a lower portion of the river. Just be careful on the logs if it's wet out, they can be slippery.

Keep an eye out for ripe salmonberry along the trail, but be wary of nettles and devil's club.

Sulphide Creek Campground has nice flat spots for 8-10 tents, and easy access to river water. There is a backcountry pit toilet (wooden throne) at the camp. Walk up the river just a bit from camp for excellent views of mountains and glaciers.

Headed to Baker River today and it's was a lovely hike. I only went up to the river crossing since I had my dog and didn't want to risk slipping on the various intersecting trees to reach the other side, but it was still a very lush green outing. Lots of old growth, moss and a very easy stroll through beautiful forest along the river. For some reason most people seem to choose the other trail - Baker Lake - but I find this one much more scenic.

Made it to the Baker River Trailhead parking lot at 8AM and there was only one other car there. We did not see a single person from start to finish on this trail.  The weather was partly cloudy to start off and had been raining for the few days prior to this trip, by the time we finished the sun was completely out and it was beautiful.  Was expecting it to be pretty muddy but the trail was in great shape!  We started off on the Baker Lake trail until it comes to the large suspension bridge where the trail splits. Take the time to walk out onto the bridge and check out the Baker River. The clear blue/green water is absolutely breathtaking. 

To the east the bridge takes you out on the Baker Lake Trail  that runs along the east side of the lake (don't go this way if you are wanting to go up the Baker River Trail), we followed the Baker River Trail that heads north to Sulphide Creek Campground.  From the bridge to Sulphide Creek it's about 2.5 miles, the trail is very well marked and follows the Baker River for most of the trip.  

Along the way be prepared to cross over a few small creeks with good footing and ways to cross without getting too wet.  The largest challenge of this trip comes at Lake Creek.  The foot bridge that used to span the creek has been completely washed out and is no longer useable.  You will need to find a way across either by forging the creek or crossing via a downed tree.  Note - In mid-May the creek is still flowing pretty strong and was about 2-3 feet deep and moving fast.  We crossed via a downed tree that was roughly 10 feet above the creek (Cross with care!).  As the spring continues and summer starts I would assume you can cross the creek with ease!  The rest of the trail is in great condition.  About halfway you will cross into the National Park and leave the USFS land.  Once we made it to Sulphide Creek Campground, we took a break for lunch and soaked in the amazing views.  

Overall, a great summer warm up hike with very little elevation gain.  Would highly recommend this trail for those looking to get out and soak in amazing views without the worries of too much elevation gain.  Total trip distance was exactly 7 miles roundtrip from the trailhead parking. Taking our time and taking in the views it took 4 hours from start to finish.