Walked a loop from Samish Overlook along Larry Reed Trail to Acorn Trail up the FS road then past Lily Lake to North Butte before going to Oyster Dome via the connector and back to Samish Overlook. Seven miles, 1,400 feet, 2 1/2 hours.
Trail is in good shape with some muddy spots from a light overnight rain which gave everything a nice green look and forest-y smell. Great views from both viewpoints once the sun peeked out around 11 AM. Saw a lot of Trilliums along the trail and plenty of skunk cabbage in the marshes near Lily Lake.
This was the busiest day I’ve experienced in the area with a lot of smiling folks out in groups or solos and pairs. Plenty of fun dogs as well! Parking was tight when I arrived at 930 and jammed at noon with cars along both sides of the road near the parking lot entrance. There was also a work group doing trail maintenance and a parasailing group setting up when I left.
The view from the overlook was amazing as always, but enhanced by all of the agricultural work that’s been done recently such as plowing and planting. This has given the valley a well ordered appearance. It was a cool change from the winter views and a hint at the coming berry and produce bonanza only a few weeks away!
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