Lower Dungeness River — Friday, May. 1, 1998

Olympic Peninsula > Hood Canal

Intended to travel the Dungeness to an approach to Warrior Peaks, with a bivy somewhere between Boulder Shelter and base of the route. Trail is in very good shape up to the snow line which is approximately 4500' at this time. Snow on the trail about 40 min. before Boulder Shelter. Snow bridge at the last stream crossing before Boulder Shelter is giving way, so take care. 3-4 ft. of snow on the banks of this crossing. Boulder Shelter area/meadows still has 6-7 ft. of snow. Shelter is in a ""hole of snow"". Trail beyond is virtually impassible - tree wells, steep terrain, and uneven melting. May be able to traverse on open slopes above the shelter area to get access farther south but didn't try this alternative. Turned around after a sunny lunch at Boulder Shelter. Ended up being a good workout with full packs. Trail to BS should be clear within a week.