Fall colors are fading and Baker looks a tad yellow, but an amazing area, as always and mushrooms are popping up. Road is much worse this year with some really big holes but 2 sedans still managed it, and we saw some construction vehicles on our way in. Not sure where they were hiding on the way out, but hopefully they are going to work on it. The river crossing was totally dry today, for better or worse.
Road/Parking: This road is getting bad. There are some really big holes now. We did fine with 6.9 inches of clearance in a small SUV but we had to do some maneuvering and take it slow. We passed some construction vehicles but didn't see any sign of them on our way out. The TH only had a dozen vehicles and all of the campsites were open. The pit toilets were relatively clean and well stocked with a full bin of extra paper.
Trail: A little rooty and rocky with lots of sun exposure. Intermittent views through and lots of mushrooms popping up. At the non-river crossing the path to the right was a little better in my opinion, just follow the ribbons and footprints and you will find the other side. A GPS track is a good idea in case you get off trail or take a wrong fork. Moth things are fairly well marked but some are ambiguous. Nice and quiet clear day with all the big mountains out.
Stats: Approx 7.6 miles, 2000 ft gain/loss, 4.25 hours total, 3.5 hours moving. We are moderate/fast paced hikers who hike weekly.
Length
Elevation Gain
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