The junction you refer to does make a loop, joining the more direct trail just below the summit. As I recall, the "alternate" trail (the fork to the right as you ascend) is actually a lot more interesting and a little longer -- it contours through a gully or two, follows a stream for a while, and eventually climbs through some more mature forest to the upper junction.
Question -- Is all the parking near Rattlesnake Lake part of the state park and thus pay parking?
Yes it is pay parking in the new lot on the east side of the road. Park there and it's $5.00. Park on the other side and it's free. From Rattlesnake Ledge you can see one parking lot crammed full and the other with zero cars.
Ah, but the beauty of those privys at the state park lot almost make it worth $10, they are so pretty.
Tsolo--thanks for the info on the Blowout side loop. It was pretty obvious it must connect since both ends were marked the same, but now I know a different indirect way to hike when I go up again.
Thanks for posting a report about Cedar Butte. I went up there today and really enjoyed it. The trees had a nice covering of snow, and the veiw was cool.
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