Skyline Trail Loop — Thursday, Sep. 26, 2024

My take on this trail as a fit 60 year old- This was a moderate to somewhat challenging hike at times. I did the full loop and logged close to 7 miles and over 1900 feet elevation. There is a fork in the trail at one point where you can divert back to the trailhead and it shortens the trail by at least a mile. The paved section was steep and a lot of the trail is large step-ups and step-downs more like a double step or stair. The trail had lots of rocks to navigate and can be tough on the knees. But, what a hike!! The views are unbelievable. Mountain peaks, a view of Mt Adams, Mt Hood, and Mt St Helens. Ranier was socked in by clouds at the top, but the varied terrain is awe inspiring. The fall foliage is brilliant with reds, yellows, orange. We saw 4 bears all scavenging for berries, mountain goats, marmots, a deer, pika, chipmunks, and ground squirrels. It was an incredible day! This is a hike I would definitely do again. 5/5