First backpacking of the year, and first backpacking trip in the PNW. Lots of birds and deer! Overall a very pleasant 3 night trip.
Backpacking itinerary: Roland Creek -> Devil's Creek -> Ruby Pasture. All sites were great, though the water source for Ruby Pasture was a bit of a walk (~0.25 mile from the site turnoff).
The trail was very well maintained: no washouts or obstructions.
We also did a small (~4 miles round trip) side hike partially up the Devil's Dome Loop on the second day after dropping most of our gear off at the Devil's Creek site. We didn't manage to get above the treeline at all, and turned around when we hit our predetermined time limit.
Roland Creek was the only creek crossing of note - we made it over on the way out by stepping across rocks, though it was a little harder for me than my partner since I'm a bit shorter. On the way back I chose to take off my boots and cross in sandals rather than rock hop again, though my partner still chose to rock hop.
Totals: ~32 miles, ~4,600 ft elevation gain.
Comments
Joseph Gonzalez on East Bank Ross Lake
Congrats on a most excellent first backpacking trip in the PNW (and of the year)! I like to think of the extra ~0.25 of mile as "bonus miles"
Posted by:
Joseph Gonzalez on May 28, 2025 02:30 PM
AtomicAthena on East Bank Ross Lake
You know, that's a great attitude to have! Appreciate the perspective. :)
Posted by:
AtomicAthena on May 30, 2025 08:01 AM