Scott's Pick of the Month - September 07

Beginner Scout -

I am partial to Mount Rainier National Park. It is beautiful in so many ways, and there are literally hundreds of trails to fit every type of hiker, so, it should be no surprise that my first beginner hike is to Ipsut Creek.

Ipsut Creek is closed to cars due to the winter storms of 06, but, it is not closed to campers and hikers. A steady 2 1/2 mile hike through old growth forest and along the Carbon Glacier River awards the scout with a choice of 30 camp spots. There are no fees at this time due to the washouts, but you will need a wilderness permit to camp. Pack in on a Friday evening, hike to Carbon Glacier on Saturday, hike out Sunday morning. Easy grades. Rarely gets snow in the winter, but is wet. But hey, this is Washington, nothing wrong with liquid sunshine.

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Experienced Scout -

Ready for an adventure through a Rain Forest and into one of the most spectacular valleys in Washington State. Scouts, let's head to Enchanted Valley. Permits are required all season, peak season drawn by lotto.

Although Enchanted Valley is not a particularly difficult hike, rolling trail with no significant ups or downs, it is 14 miles in and 14 miles out for a grand total of 28 miles. Plus it is wet, 60% of the time you can be sure you are going to experience some rain. The trail takes one through lush rain forests, deep into the heart of the Olympic Mountains to a historic Chalet, that use to be a play ground for Washington's wealthiest. During the spring, you can barely hear over the roar of the waterfalls coming over the sides of the cliffs surrounding the valley. You are practically guaranteed to see bears, and if you take a day trip up to the pass, why, mountain goats are usually present as well.

When you arrive you will never want to leave, bring a camera, plenty of film, and plan to stay a few days, you will not regret it.

More information.