First of all there is zero snow here anywhere! What weird year to be hiking into thanksgiving with no snow at higher elevations. I’ve visited all 4 huts now and I have to say this is my least favorite of all! It looks really big from the outside (and it is) but all of the quarters, except the top area is occupied by ski patrol. In other words if you are bunking here be prepared that the kitchen, dining room and beds are all in the same area (might be an issue if you’re sleeping with others who don’t have the same sleeping patterns). There are no grand views like there are in the other huts! There are views of ST Helen’s just before the hut in a clear cut area off the the right. We took the road up and the trail down though thinking about it it might have been easier to do the other way around! All in all I’m glad I’ve visited this one! Super cute yurt in the woods! No dogs allowed in the huts so I tied mine outside while we went in for a few. Also the huts require a sno park pass starting nov 1st (yes even though there’s no snow). Make sure you get one! The state is unforgiving about it (unlike the national forest) and you will find yourself with an $80 ticket (yes this happened to me at a different place several years ago). Word to the wise the state wants their money!!! 

A welcome sight. Lots of lupine and tiger lily blooming along the trails.  

We parked in the last lot before the road was blocked off, which was confusing because there was no signage until walking beyond the barrier for a bit.

Overall, getting to The Yurt was a disappointment since 85% of the hike was on logging roads. I'm not suggesting it wasn't beautiful, but if I wanted to feel like I was in the secluded wilderness, walking on recently used roads isn't the way to do it. I enjoyed the section in the woods between the roads best.

The Yurt itself was well-stocked with water, pots and pans, silverware, and cleaning supplies. It also had heat and lights on a timer.

First time on this trail. Snow was light so we opted for micro spikes and left the snow shoes in the car. We took the lower Yurt trail, which added time and a little distance. But not difficult. The volunteers have done a great job of grooming the trails (as much as they can for as little snow) and the signage is fabulous.

Coming down on 2/1 is was rainy. Again used our micro spikes. There is one opening with a great view of the High Hut (I think). But overall this hike is trees on each side. 

Staying in the Yurt was an amazing experience. Highly recommend it if you've never done it before. They are so well-appointed that next time, I will pack less gear. The volunteers who have maintain the yurt over the years have literally though of everything! Fully stocked kitchens (utensils, pots/pans), gas fireplace, comfy futons/bunks, pillows (and they provide disposable pillow cases!), games, puzzles, books, magazines. Need to brew coffee? You have your choice of French press, pour over or percolated. They thought of everything. And the cleanest outhouse ever. Ever. Respect this property and leave it better than you found it!!!