[raising3hikers]

Bald Mtn 4851' I headed out for the Mountain Loop Highway on Saturday for a short trip up the Walt Bailey trail. The TH is above 3000' which is something I wanted to take advantage of before snow limits access to these higher TH's. The start of the trail was pretty wet but in great shape. A little snow started in about a mile before breaking out into the low alpine environment. It was cold while the sun didn't get very high over the ridge.

cold morning along the trail

The trail was easy to follow despite several inches covering the ground and a couple other parties that had started earlier. Once past the frozen tarns and small lakes the snow became a bit deeper~12 inches or so. I did not bring snowshoes but didn't really need them anyways as the snow was fairly firm. I zigzagged my way up to the ridge with views down towards Puget Sound, which looked like they were still under clouds.

small island

Spada Lake

little rainbow in the clouds

I was still able to follow the trail on the South side of Bald until beneath the summit. I headed up bypassing big boulders and reached the summit to some pretty good views for a peak below 5000'. It was sunny but cold and I quickly headed back down.

South side of Bald

view of one of the frozen lakes

It was a nice little area with an alpine feel after 4000' 8.75 miles 2900' elevation gain

[Redwic]

I went there for the first time, last month. I really enjoyed it and I can see its appeal. The colors were in full swing when I went but it looks even better with snow!

[iron]

i think this is one of the remaining pre-work stefan trips you burned up. i know you like 2am departure times...

[Stefan]

Nice for a morning trip!