First thing we noticed was all the new Trail head signs all along Hwy 20. Wheelchair accessible, paved to a lookout on a ledge overlooking Liberty Bell Mtn. Snow is coming soon, so check snow reports but it was sunny and brisk on this Fall day. This area is worth the trip, which is 160 miles from Seattle, Kirkland. Views are spectacular. You will find Lake Ann, Blue Lake in the same general area, so if this one doesn't get your heart pumping fast enough check out the many choices nearby.

The road is still closed, but it is snow free. Walked the road and the overlook trail and got fabulous views of Early Winter Spires as the storm clouds rolled in.

After many a harrowing adventure, we wrapped it up by walking the blacktop path to the overlook. We arrived just in time to see a parasailer jump from a high point on Kangaroo ridge! It was very cool to see him cruise around in circles. He made a perfect landing right next to his getaway car at the hairpin on HWY 20. He was loaded and gone in nothing flat. 180 yards R/T, 6' gain, almost 8 minutes away from the car. Saw climbers on the east face of Liberty Bell; route uncertain.

Though a long drive from Seattle, the rewards are great here. We snowshoed along Highway 20 out of Mazama with the intent to camp at the Washington Pass Overlook. Highway 20 is blocked a few miles west of Mazama, and one must travel approximately 8 miles over snow to the overlook. The only negative part is dealing with all the snowmobilers who seem to enjoy buzzing the hikers and skiers. However, if you're able to look beyond that, the hiking is mellow and the views of Silver Star, the Wine Spires, South and North Early Winters Spires, Liberty Bell, etc. are awesome. One could easily spend a week back in here exploring side drainages, skiing couloirs, or making rare winter ascents on some of the surrounding peaks. A barred owl kept us company at night, and the morning brought 4 inches of fresh snow. A ""thru-hike"" to Newhalem is definitely in order. I can't wait to return. A word of caution: this route crosses several avalanche chutes. Happily, there is no sno-park permit required to park at the road end. Check out the brewery in Twisp for some absolutely amazing food and friendly service. Ditto for breakfast at the ""hip"" shop in Mazama.