I was surprised how good the road was. I expected worse. Plenty of potholes, but passable in most any sedan. No worse than many other similar roads in the region. We were the only car at the trailhead around 8:30, and only two more when we left that afternoon. Trail is in good condition with some work done in the last few weeks. Only a couple fallen trees across trail. A little overgrowth on the trail which made for some wet pant legs from plants holding the rain from the night before. We went all the way to the lookout at Park Butte and back. Few other hikers. Plenty of people at the lookout from the Hwy 20 side. GPS had us just over 9 miles and 3,100 of total elevation gain for the there-and-back.

The trail was steep for the first two miles. There were many fallen trees and river rock posing bad footing. Else, it was nice and shady with soft areas to hike through.

Thoughts of a shortcut to Schreiber Meadow from Bellingham were dashed. The 12 miles on the Middle Fork Rd began decent with some washboard. The next 4 miles was horribly potholed limited to 5-10 mph. The last 2 miles was the best but watch for sharp rocks. At least 40 minutes to cover that 12 miles. The most exciting part of the trail is the creek bridge at the beginning. The rest of the trail is mostly in nice shape. I don't know when this was ever a horse trail. There are places that are now impassable by horse. Expect 2 1/2 hours each way on a challenging uphill forest hike. You break out into Mazama park with views of Lincoln, Colfax and Baker to the North and the Sisters Range to the West. Then there is the Park Butte lookout another 1100 ft above you. it's another 15 or 20 minutes up to Schreiber's Meadow. I started at 10am and was back at 6 with really no time or energy to explore the Railroad Grade, Park Butte and Schreiber which is always my goal from the Baker Lake side. The only upside to the Ridley trail was a new experience that won't be repeated.

Oh boy- this trail is a fun one. I have hiked Park Butte several times but was looking for a quieter approach to the area. If you are in the same boat- this is the trail for you! We only saw 2 groups staying the night at Mazama Park and 3 groups of day hikers. 

The trail itself is in pretty good shape. The river crossing is easy right now with the log bridge and the rope handles. Our 30 lb dog had no issues crossing on a leash. HOWEVER beware that this bridge is subject to frequent washouts. On the way down we met a lovely WTA volunteer (Hi Karen!) who told us this bridge has gone out on her while on overnight trips. Beware if you are hiking this on a very hot day as lots of snowmelt has the potential to come down the mountain. 

There are several downed trees on the trail. I would recommend a GPS as some spots are tricky and you can loose the trail. It’s nothing crazy, but a GPS makes finding the trail again very easy. 

Once you reach the meadow and Mazama park you are treated with a gorgeous view of Kulshan (Mt Baker). There are several tent sites (marked with log platforms) & a toilet downhill from the shelter. Most streams are dry right now, but there is one running on the Bell Pass trail not far from the shelter.

Watching last light in the mountains with the sound of marmots whistling was the cherry on top. I am forever grateful to live in such a beautiful place.