Doing some training runs in the North Bend/I-90 Corridor area to get ready for a 100k at the end of June.
I started with Mailbox Peak running up and down before the crowds descended. This is a beautiful peak when it's lonesome, but can be very overrun later in the day and especially on the weekends which can ruin it's appeal. So get there early and don the headlamp for a crowd free experience!
Ran from the Mailbox Peak trail head to the Twin Falls Trail which connects with the John Wayne and from there to Mt. Washington.
Twin Falls can be quite busy, but wasn't too bad on my first trip through. The falls are very fully right now with the Spring melt off so check em' out!
Above the falls to the John Wayne Trail its a little brushy, but no blowdowns and its not an issue at all. Just be aware that if it's rained or it's early in the mornings, you're going to get wet from all the leaves.
I have been to the Mt. Washington area many times to climb some sport routes in the area, but had never attempted the trail to the summit. Now having done it, I can wholeheartedly say, avoid this one. Unless you're trying to tick off all the peaks in the corridor, this hike is one you should forget. The trail itself is very steep, it's very rocky and loose and moreover, the views at the top are so/so. To spend the time to drive out that way and hike to the top, there are numerous far more beautiful hikes within minutes of this trail head.
It's a good workout and that's about it. I know that seems pretty negative, but it's simply the truth. I'd rather hike Si on a sunny summer Sunday than this one again.
With that said, it's hard to have a bad day in the mountains and this was no exception. Still a good day! 30+ miles and 8,700' of elevation gained for the day, can't complain!
Happy trails friends!
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