Observation Peak — Friday, Jun. 19, 2020

First time hiking to Observation Peak & we wanted to do a loop so added Trapper Creek Trail. Depending on your preferences there are benefits to doing this loop either clockwise or counter-clockwise. We took off around 8am from Gov't Mineral Springs parking area (latrine open! but bring your own hand sanitizer) took Observation Peak trail 132 a well-maintained pine duff trail with gradual ascent in the shade to 132A. Limited water opps. Lunch on the Peak with glorious 5 Cascade mountains in view --Jefferson joined the show from the distant south -- and the first bothersome, but scarce mosquitos. After obligatory photo ops, headed back to junction and continued west on Trapper Creek Trail 192. First part seemed less maintained, steeper w/loose rock meant slow-going initially. Switchbacks helped as it descends into shade of trees and a surprise distant (unnamed?) waterfall. Soon enough you're among the Big Trees with refreshing creek & several campsites. We appreciated being in the shade with lots of water on the second half of our 16mile loop but would also find the slow, gradual descent on Observation Peak trail a nice way to end a long hike. So depending on how you like to HYOH - you have two unique trails on which to experience a bit of everything the GP has to offer on this loop.