Quick report for those interested in the Oyster Dome Trail from the Samish Overlook lot. Trail is in pretty good shape for this time of year. Some mud in areas and rocky tread as usual. The views were dramatic at both the overlook and at the Dome itself due to the cloudy conditions. Saw a couple dozen people including a group of college age hikers visiting from Tennessee. They commented there aren’t a lot of hills like this in their hometown of Nashville! 

BTW - Many thanks to whomever is keeping the bathroom clean and stocked. 

One note of caution - the road has developed some deep potholes. Nothing terrible, just more care needed than in times past. It looked like someone has been trying to fill some of the holes with rocks which helps. It’s right on the border of “suitable for all vehicles” and “rough but passable”.

Not too crowded on a cloudy Sunday after daylight savings, with rain in the forecast. Arrived just before 10a with a few other cars buffeted by the wind in the parking lot. Clean & well-stocked privy at the trailhead. Headed clockwise on the loop, the forest shielding me from the worst of the wind, otherwise trail in great condition. Ran into a 3 other parties on the way up, then 2 other parties at the windy overlook. Stopped by Lily Lake on the way back. 

We arrived at the parking lot at 11:30am and it was almost full. Plenty of spaces to park if the lot is full.

Trail was in good condition all the way to the dome. Very windy and cold at the top. If you plan to climb to the top, bring an extra coat.

Three bags of dog poop were left behind. We picked it up for you, since you couldn’t be bothered to do it yourself. You and your dog packed it in, you need to pack it out.

Great day for a great trail system! Started at Samish Overlook at 9 am, surprisingly, the only car in the lot on a Monday morning. Did an 8-mile loop including 1500 feet gain with side trips over 3-hours including photo ops and trail clean-up. The trails included Oyster Dome, to the Lily Lake Connector over to North Butte and the bench viewpoint then down to Lizard Lake around the east side of Lily Lake Trail and back to the overlook via Sam’s Shortcut and Larry Reed Trail. Only saw four people the entire time even though there were a dozen cars at the lot upon return. Luckily I beat the rain and even saw my shadow a few times. 

The trails are in good shape with some muddy areas at stream and spring crossings. Both lakes are still partially frozen. Did the hike in light boots rather than runners for that reason. These trails are typically rocky and rooty with moderate inclines. Thinking about the overall system, these are wonderful trails with nice paths, good views, and so many different greens and browns that one can really get into a serene mood or power through a strong workout walking or running. 

I found a dog bootie (see pic) and left it at the overlook attached to the fence. 

Drove up to Blanchard Upper around 9:30AM on Saturday and parking lot was fairly empty - granted we had about 3~4 hours before heavy rain was supposed to set in. Lots of large pot holes getting to the upper parking lot, but nothing bad enough that you can't navigate around or go slowly over. 

All the snow has melted at this point and the trail conditions were slightly muddy at times. Otherwise, beauuuuuutiful hike with a rewarding view at Oyster Dome overlooking Samish Bay.