Trail partners

Chris, Gerda and Noah on trail

I thought it best that I hiked alone on my big daylong track to Upper Lyman Lake and Glacier. A big reason for this was that I wanted to move swiftly along, yet often stop to take pictures. However, while taking a break on the shore of Hart Lake I noticed a threesome from Holden Village hiking along the high rocky lakeside slope. I quietly caught up with them on the trail shortly after Hart Lake. They were making their way to Cloudy Pass, but we shared a common trail for a few miles up to Lyman Lake, after which our paths diverged.

When I reached them Chris, Noah and Gerda were going at a steady, quite pace. Our silent hiking was interrupted briefly when Noah spotted a bear that rapidly ran off into the woods on the trail ahead. He offered to let someone else lead, and joking picked up a small branch as a defensive tool. We were all thankful self defense wasn’t needed.

Rest at lookout for Crown Point Falls

At the scenic lookout to Crown Point Falls we enjoyed a beak in the warm sun. What a pleasant conversation we had on that hike, with hardly a word spoken between the lot of us.

Crown Point Falls

Trail Questions…

With whom do you enjoy moving down the trail?

If you’re planning on a long hike, what are the things necessary for you and your partner to enjoy time together?

What is your hiking style; pacing, conversation, etc.?

What attributes do you look for in a partner?

What added value can you bring to time together on the trail?



View from Hart Lake, with hiking trail upper left (across rocky slope)



Trail development and maintenance

Aspen leaves

The first few miles of the trail to Upper Lyman Lake were fairly flat, on the soft soil developed by the deciduous forest. Brightly colored yellow aspen leaves lit up the woods.

Trail before Hart Lake

Then the trail turned increasingly rocky and climbed steeply as it neared Hart Lake and the forest became coniferous and much less wooded. It traversed rock slides and went over mountain streams. I began to notice how well maintained it was. Just as predicted, I could clearly find my way and was able to travel without worry of getting lost.

I later learned that the Washington Trails Association (WTA) works with volunteers to maintain the multitude of trails across the state. Following my hike I was pleased to dedicate a day working with them on the trail to Honeymoon Heights. It was a great group of people who clearly enjoyed maintaining the hiking trails for the benefit of themselves and others.

WTA volunteer Gary at work

Trail Questions…

Who helped pave the trail for you? E.g. teachers, parents, grandparents, coaches, or neighbors?

What are you doing to help pave the trail for others? E.g. mentoring, teaching, coaching, parenting?

Do you know someone on a rough trail that might need a little support and word of encouragement?



Trails volunteers by Honeymoon Heights