It's been a number of years since my first hike here. I wanted to get back in or near to NCNP and this was the best option.
Trail is in impeccable condition. Berry supply is super extra plentiful, especially once you are above 5k feet. Just seemingly endless amounts. Mostly Cascade blueberry, but many others as prior reports have outlined. I found some black and even a red huckleberry. Had I more time, I would have picked for hours and been set for pancakes for YEARS.
Unsurprisingly incredible views from the lookout, even though it was mostly cloudy today. I especially enjoyed spying Chickamin Glacier to the east, and capturing a rainbow at just the right moment northward in the distance. Thanks to the volunteers who continue to help this lookout exist.
With the 20 mile drive from 530 plus a 6 mile narrow one-car wide-forest road, steep and rocky with many blind corners, the trip just to the trailhead itself keeps the numbers of people down on this hike. Gotta be fully committed for this one.
All said, will be back next late August/early September for a peak berry bonanza. I had thought Upper East Fork Foss had the most but pales in comparison. Plus way less mileage for these anyhow.
Lastly, it appears dispersed camping is available in the meadow and down a rocky gully on the east side of the lookout.
RT 8m/3300ft
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