[raising3hikers]

With much thanks to Stefan's TR last week on his hike up Farewell. Ike and Doe, I decided to head up to that area for either that trip he did, or the trip I ended up doing. It all depended on how far I could drive up the Falls Creek road N of Winthrop. I was able to leave work early enough last Friday to head over 20 and find the Falls Creek road completely free of snow all the way to the end. I car camped and hoped for an early start the next day. I woke early and was hiking by 5am on the trail for a short distance before heading up the slopes to my first Pk. No bushwhacking was had and no snow til 7k. At Pt 7005, I headed E towards Pk 7200, although I had to drop elevation and then back up but conditions were great. I reached the summit with good views before the incoming weather would come in.

the craggies from Pk 7200

Next would be Mt Barney, I retraced my steps and then a few more ups and downs along a southern ridge had me at my next summit of the day. I found a Fay register and signed in as I could see and feel a couple raindrops falling.

Barney register

Obstruction Pk

I then headed N towards Obstruction staying on the snow crest most of the time as the travel was easier than in the small trees. I reached the summit to find another Fay register, quickly signed in and left because I could hear a few thunder claps in the distance.

dark skies over the craggies

Obstruction register

I decided to drop down to the W to Falls Creek, I found snow all the way down to the valley floor and travel was good despite a few more rain drops. I paused to grab a snack and spotted my first bear of the season about 100' away. As soon as I took my camera out, it disappeared. I kept heading down towards the creek junction where I saw the main trail across the creek. I ran across the creek not caring cause my feet were already wet. The trail travel was quicker and had to cross a log 1/4 mile before getting back to the TH. As I started to drive away, the rains became heavy, good timing!

Falls Creek

13.5 miles 4900 elevation gain 6hrs 45 min

[Brushbuffalo]

Nice hike, Eric. Perfect timing to just beat out that regional thunderstorm system. You should name Pk. 7200.

[Stefan]

any fire cans found or gallons of water found? https://www.nwhikers.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7967398&highlight=obstruction

[raising3hikers]