Good conditions on the trail, and a clear day for the views. Pick up a pamphlet to learn about the region. And be sure to stay on the marked trail to protect the alpine plants.

. In bloom: catchflies, various asters, bellflowers.

Plants fruiting or no longer blooming: pasqueflowers, lilies, phlox.

Some biting flies, especially after sunset.

Road up to Deer Park in excellent shape compared to forest roads -- just a bit of washingboarding and almost zero potholes -- but lots of blind turns so take it slow and use the horn to announce your presence. I drive with window down so I can listen for hidden oncoming traffic.

Hiked from Deer Park on along the ridge to Moose lake. Stayed overnight and hiked out through the valley on the way back.

Something like 12-13 miles each way. Bring plenty of water for the ridge because there's zero shade for basically the whole day. Ranger recommended 3 liters per person. Hiking out through Badger valley was nice for a change of scenery but we think it added more total gain because you have to go down about 1000ft first leaving Moose lake before ascending 2000ft to the junction.

Good trip! The view early on north to the sound is pretty incredible. Nice views around the Maiden Peak part of the hike of Port Angeles, the Dungeness Spit, Vancouver island, Mount Baker, the Canadian Cascades, San Juan & Lopez, Whidbey, etc.

The deer at Moose Lake are salt aggressive. Tried walking off with my friend's trekking pole! Hide your salty items and watch your camp.

I learnt the road opened (it was freshly graded, no holes, minimal bumps, somewhat dusty), the skies were mostly blue (some clouds - awesome for mood & for colours) so I couldn’t resist the urge to head up for short walk to check out the flowers & vistas after work….so no one at the trailhead when I arrived at 7:15pm - a solitary walk in the wild watching the clouds dance across & around blue mountain & eventually retreating for wide sunset vistas in all directions…another group arrived with a charcuterie board to graze on at the summit (I’m inspired for a sunrise or sunset picnic now 🤪) . It was so beautiful & everchanging that I couldn't resist a second loop around. I saw 2 deer (shedding their winter coats) & a rabbit & 4 humans with an awesome spread of food.

for more pics & videos: IG @janettepowell

I camped at the Deer Park campground and hiked the short Rain Shadow loop to the top of Blue Mountain for sunset. The road is 8 miles paved and 8 miles dirt - in good shape if you take it slow. Views from the parking lot are amazing and they get better at the top. Trail is in great condition but unsurprisingly dusty. It can be very windy up there so prepare accordingly. Very few people on the trail and on the campground.