Hiking With Herb
East Wonderland Trail
August 25th , 2025, was a 7.5-mile hiking day for 8 hikers on the East Wonderland Trail. The waterfalls were magnificent, but the trees of the forest were structures of wonder. Douglas fir, spruce, hemlock & ceder, all made a statement with their dimension & height, stretching toward the sky. We felt like small bugs on the forest floor! Again, I must use a poem I wrote some years back to reflect this sight: "Today, we saw trees of stature in the woods. If they could speak to us, they would. Two centuries they have stood, pointing toward the sky, and growing taller, bye & bye. Our bodies struggle up the grade to reach the views, that God has made. We wonder why, like the trees, that we could stay here for a time, like these".
It was a good day!! Herb ****On Sept. 1st, Labor Day, I am asking you to call me if you would like to hike that day. If there are not more than 3 people who are interested, we just won't go this time. It will be a hot day & we must leave by 7 am, from the YMCA parking lot. Call me at: 509-517-8881
Hiking With Herb
Old Naches Road above Whistlin’ Jack’s
On Aug.11th, three of us walked four miles on the Old Naches Rd above Whistlin' Jack's. The weather was a "cool" 80 degrees, with a nice breeze along the Naches River. The flowers were mostly gone because of the summer heat, but the greenery persists. Sue, Jill & I , enjoyed the day nature provided. Herb **We will meet again on Aug. 18th , at 8 am in the YMCA parking lot.
Hiking With Herb
Naches Peak Trail
Hiking With Herb
The Wallowa Mts of NE Oregon has always been a favorite place for me. The assure blue lakes, as well as the display of Natures flowers, give a sense of belonging. The mts force you to look toward their snow-covered heights, & challenge your body to hike their heights. I have taken my granddaughter & several friends to enjoy the Wallowa vistas. So, this brings me to the week of July 20th, 2025. Nick Shultz, Jerry Kobes, & I decided to do car camping on the Sought East area of these mts. The week was filled with blue skies, crisp nights, & serene trails. We found lakes near the alpines with flowers galore. We also looked from a mile high point above the Snake River. As we traveled on Rd #39, we found blueberries for breakfast. Road #39 led us to a place called the Blue Hole on the Imnaha River. This river had some rather large bull trout. However, catch & release is the rule. Our visit to the forest service stations at La Grande & Joseph gave us some very helpful information. This helped us find a wonderful camp site called Black Horse. It was a place that was excellent in size & convenient . We also had an outhouse nearby! A picnic table on site, made meals easy. Together, the three of us had a wonderful time. I'm sure we would go back & explore this area again in the future. Herb
Ps...I must also admit that one morning I slept longer than usual. I was awakened by my tent-mates, bringing me coffee at my bedside. Such luxury!!! But after all, I AM much more senior than they are. Ha Ha!!
The Wallowa Mts of NE Oregon
Hiking With Herb
Mt. Rainier
Mt. Rainier gave us a display of views & flowers on the 28th of July. Seven team members hiked 6 miles & some 500 vertical feet on the flower trail. The flowers were like a huge earthly garden everywhere! The main face looked clear and crisp with a few puffy white clouds. As we hiked toward the Rainier Lodge, a sound of rushing water filled our ears, from several streams. If you haven't experienced this trail, now is the time to enjoy a real sense of nature. You will not be disappointed! Unfortunately, the Aug. 4th hike will be cancelled as a "led" hike, as neither Jim or I will be available. If you choose to go on your own, be sure to have AT LEAST 2 OTHER HIKERS WITH YOU! Be safe!
Hiking With Herb
Sheep Lake
Herb’s hiking group went to Sheep Lake this past Monday 7/21 without Herb. He was backpacking in the Wallowas in Oregon. Three of us had a great hike! Although it rained off and on all the drive there, it didn’t rain after we arrived at the trailhead. The lake was Beautiful when we got there. We had some nice conversations with other hikers coming and leaving. Come join us this coming Monday 7/28 @ 8:00 at the 40th Ave. YMCA. We meet in the north west corner of the parking lot.
Hiking With Herb
Bumping Lake
On July 14th, 2025, four hiking team members went to trail #971 across Bumping Lake. This trail is rather moderate. However, it is necessary to cross Three Rock Falls. We went 5 miles with approximately 400 vertical feet. It was a very pleasant day with sun, & breezes from the lake. We found a few huckleberries along the trail also. When we stopped for lunch, we were entertained by the sound of the creek nearby. We also found some flowers that were new to us. The day was filled with soft sounds of the forest breezes, patches of filtered sun, & shared conversation. Herb **On July 21st, Jim Harwood will take the lead to Sheep Lake from HWY 410 at Chinook Pass. This is a moderate hike of 4 miles. Please be ready to leave at 8 am from the YMCA parking lot.
Hiking With Herb
Mount Rainier
July 7th, 2025, was a day of continuous views in the Glacier Basin (White River), on Mt. Rainier. The hiking team of 7, found the trail at Glacier Basin. to be a wonderful stroll through a virgin forest. The sound of the White River played music for the day. It gave us a relaxed feeling & a lasting mind set. On a scale of 0 to 10, the day was definitely a 10! Picture taking was easy. Views of nature surrounded us all. Five miles of this experience was rather short, but we will go back for the views of Mt. Rainier & the profuse flowers on its trails again soon. Jim, Henry, Nick, Sandi, Claire, Connie & I all had a very nice day. Herb *See you on July 14th at 7 am at the YMCA parking lot. Whoever can come, the day will certainly be another great adventure!
Hiking With Herb
It was a perfect day on June 30th, for a 10-mile hike. The hiking team of seven went to Packwood Lake in the Goat Rocks wilderness. The temperature was a pleasant 64 degrees when we started on the Pipeline Road to the lake. In the timber, on the return, it was 80 degrees, but not 101 degrees like Yakima! We visited along the way, and enjoyed all the emerging flowers & mountain views. At the lake, we had astounding views of distant snowcapped mountains. Clear reflections in the lake became mesmerizing . Again, we will not forget this hike anytime soon.
Herb **on July 7th 2025, we will go to the White River trail in Rainier National Park. Please be at the YMCA parking lot by 7 am, as it's a longer drive. See you then!!
Goat Rocks Wilderness, Packwood
Hiking With Herb
As the days grow shorter, it becomes necessary to plan hikes that are more distant. I suggest hikes like White River, the Reflection Lake flower walk, or Packwood Lake. These are filled with beauty. Yesterday, the hiking team of four, went 7 miles and 1200 vertical feet to Burnt Mt. On the Bethel Ridge trail. The day was perfect except for some lingering smoke from distant wild fires. Flowers like Jacobs ladder, Lewis paintbrush, & buckwheat were everywhere. One of the wonderful opportunities we experienced, was the profuse stands of bear grass all over the forest on the road to Rattle Snake Canyon. It was a real plus for the day! Herb
Bethel Ridge Trail to Burnt Mountain
Hiking With Herb
On June 16th, the hiking team made a decision to explore the trail across Wild Cat Creek. The day was very pleasant with light breezes & blue skies. This team of seven hikers, had never been on this trail before. New mountain experiences are always a possible. We discovered that eventually we would arrive at Thunder Lake & across the Wild Car Creek again near our cars. Everyone was excited because of this circular route. Three miles & just 400 vertical feet made the day a very pleasant outing....AND, we didn't get lost!! "their leader knew!" Herb
On June 23rd, let's plan to meet again at 8 am in the YMCA parking lot. Pending weather, Bethel Ridge??
Wild Cat Creek
Hiking With Herb
On June 9th, 2025, the hiking team agreed to go to White Pass & Deer Lake on the PCT. At 7 am, we were on our way. Arriving at Leach Lake, the mosquitos were rather hungry. All nine team members hiked 5.5 miles, & 800 to 1,000 vertical feet during the day. The PCT trail was covered with patches of snow & some water. Several trees had fallen on the trail also. I made the mistake of turning into the first meadow, but then continued on a snow-covered trail. The trail came to an abrupt end when the trail was covered with snow up the slope to Deer Lake. We ate our lunch near those patches of snow. Sometimes plans must be changed pragmatically! I again appreciate this team of hikers response to change. Herb **On June 16th we will meet at the YMCA parking lot at 8 am. Back to the Wildcat??
White Pass & Deer Lake on the PCT
Hiking With Herb
On June 2nd, 2025, the hiking team went to the Devil's Slide Trail. The road to the trail head is Spring Creek, just short of Whistlin' Jack's restaurant. It is ten miles of good gravel. Four plus seven equals eleven team members. We had a wonderful day of clear weather. Mt Rainier gave us a vivid picture with Mt. Adams and the Goat Rocks within our sight too. We went 3.7 miles and about 1000 ft. Elevation. A day like this keeps your soul alive for many days. We love it!!! We will meet again on June 9th at the YMCA parking lot at 8am. Herb
Devil’s Slide Trail
The hiking team took a chance getting wet on May 19th, 2025, when we decided to go to Wild Cat Creek off HWY 12. There was somewhat of a drizzle at the trail head, but soon the sun broke through the clouds and fog. The hike of 3 miles was cool, but had nice, distant views. Everyone was happy! The logging riad were we hiked was without steepness. This road intersects the Wild Cat Creek. We will back soon to explore this road further across the creek. This team of hikers is always up to the task of finding new trails! * For those interested, we will meet again on May 26th at the YMCA parking lot at 8 am.
Hiking With Herb
Wild Cat Creek
It was the day of May 12th, 2025, when 12 hiking team members selected Saddle Mt to explore. We drove across the Vernita Bridge on HWY 124 and went toward Connel, WA. There is a recreational sign on the left side of the HWY to approach the MT. The views are astounding, with the Columbia River to the west and Crab Creek drainage to the east. The day was one of blue skies, soft breezes and unlimited views. Flowers were quite prolific across the shrub step environment. This hiking team has been lucky to pick days of splendor and experience the thrill of the hike.
Hiking With Herb
Saddle Mountain
On May 5th 2025, five women & three men of our hiking team went to Meek's Table. This plateau is located up the Rattlesnake Canyon. It provides a momentous view of Nelson Butte, Dog Mt., & distant McNeil Peak. In early spring, they are all snow capped. The 3 mile shale trail is quite difficult, with some logs & boulders. Much of this forest was burned recently. However, all members were able to complete this hike. We were treated to blue skies & soft breezes. Flowers were abundant also. It was a full day of enjoyment! Note: the other hiking team was on the butte too. **Next Monday, May 12th, we will meet again at 8am in the YMCA parking lot on 40th Ave.
Hiking With Herb
Meek's Table
On April 21st, the hiking team agreed to visit the Wild Horse Wind Farm. There was blue sky, flowers and a very cool wind. However, the team of 12 hikers were impressed by the visitor center and the tour they provided. You have a feeling that you are on top of the world, with many vistas and distant mountains. The staff at the center is very welcoming and knowledgeable about its mission of a wind farm. We ate our lunch inside because of the wind. We decided that to extend our day, a nearby road was inviting. During this venture, 10 elk or deer were observed. It was determined that a short hike would be added. It became an easy walk on a hillside, & through some pine trees. The day very successful for everyone.
ALERT!!: Next Monday, April 28th, the team is going to the Columbia Gorge. Please meet at 7am at the YMCA parking lot.
DIRECTIONS: Use Hwy 97 to Goldendale and Hwy 14 turn to The Dalles. Then take Hwy 84 west to Mosier. The trail head is there. I suggest we stop at McDonald's, just beyond Goldendale, far a rest stop.
Hiking With Herb
Wild Horse Wind Farm
Hiking With Herb
Baldy Mt. In the Yakima River Canyon
On Monday, March 31st, eight members of the hiking team decided to go to Baldy Mt. In the Yakima River Canyon. However, the road up to the ridge in the Burbank Ranch was too deteriorated & dangerous, so we agreed to go to the Umptanum trail, This trail starts out rather steep, but gradually maintains a medium level to a cut-off to the East. The East trail is pleasant without many rocks and other difficulties or obstacles. The hike resulted in a 4.5 mile and 800 vertical feet. We could see the Yakima River & many distant vistas. Small yellow flowers dotted the hillsides...gold stars & prairie stars by name. We had a very nice outing even tho the weather was threating at times. Ah, Mondays! The day to play!! See you again on April 17th at 8am in the YMCA parking lot.
**Note: The Columbia River Gorge "flower" outing, is on April 28th. We will leave at 7:15am.
Hiking With Herb
Once in awhile, when we hike, the weather gives us its best. On March 24th, 2025, the hiking team of 14 went to the Ancient Lakes near Quincy, WA. The Ancient Lakes were created during a massive flood, 15,000 years ago. It was a day of 70 degrees with broken clouds and increased spring greenery. This team of hikers are an amazing group. Some are young, in their 30s, and others are mid-life and beyond. As people of life experiences, they share their stories along the way. I have respect for each one of them. It is my fortune and privlege, to share hiking trails that I have found over all these years. I'm glad that the team can share some new ones too! We will meet again at 8am at the YMCA parking lot on March 31st.
**NOTE: We have been lucky to have several members who share the driving for each hike. It's necessary to support these drivers, by each of us contributing to the cost of gas with a donation as thanks for their help. We would get nowhere without them! Herb
Ancient Lakes
Hiking With Herb
The day was one of special effects, portraying sun, broken clouds, and light breezes. the seven members of the hiking team went up the Umtanum Canyon off Rd. #221. We crossed the Yakima River on the swinging bridge, and found the trail to be slightly muddy. However, when we got to the creek crossing, we found the water much too swift and deep. Sometimes hiking early in the spring forces a change of plans. We made a decision, as a team, to go back down the trail and hike the North side of the creek. This trail is far more difficult, with rocks and downed trees. As usual, we all took it in stride. All in all, it was a U-turn around day! We will meet again at 8 am in the YMCA parking lot on March 24th. Herb
Umtanum Canyon
Hiking With Herb
On Monday, March 10th, the hiking team went to the Columbia Reach. It was a superb day with sun, warm breezes, & river views. The North trail was dry. The four-mile hike was one of shared conversations & views of Hanford across the river. I cannot truly describe the freedom felt on a hike like this. The expansive distance, with evidence of the Great Flood, changes your perspective about time & life. This is one of my favorite hikes. I find it invigorating, & I think you would too! Next hike is on Monday, March 17th. We will meet at the YMCA parking lot on 40th Ave as usual. Better wear green, or you could get PINCHED!!! Herb
Columbia Reach
Hiking With Herb
It was March 3rd, 2025 when we went to Waterworks Canyon, above Naches, WA. The day was cool, but sunshine penetrated the broken clouds. Sheep were spotted on the high ridges along with one huge cow elk. The hiking team of seven, enjoyed the late winter day with patches of resistant snow. Much flowing water made three creek crossings tricky, but only one shoe got filled! Hiking can be challenging for many reasons, but this team rises to any occasion. I greatly admire all members of this team for taking responsibility for the hikes. Each hiker is special. Let's meet again on March 10th at 8am at the YMCA parking lot. **Please be sure to save April 28th for the Columbia River Gorge flower extravaganza!! Herb
Waterworks Canyon
Hiking With Herb
On Feb 24th, the hiking team decided to walk on the Yakima Greenway, starting at the Union Gap trail head. Six hikers had a nice walk of about 3+ miles. The day was cloudy with a temperature of 34 degrees. However, as always, all the conversations were interesting and shared in the course of the day. No mud or rain on the paved Greenway path, so that is why we chose it as opposed to other trails that would have been too muddy. Herb
Yakima Greenway
Hiking With Herb
This winter has been rather erratic. Wet snow, rain, great powder snow, and cold. Our hiking team meets on Mondays, and we have had a guessing game for snow shoeing! However, we have been very fortunate in our choices...Bumping Lake, North Tieton River, American Ski Bowl, and the emergency airport area have all been excellent. It has turned out to be a really fun year. I must add, that it's not the day, but the team members who share stories and are willing to help others. when needed, who make it great. As the team leader, I give them all a BIG #10!!! This last snowshoe outing, we had eleven members on our team. Lynn Tarango was a first timer, and Linda Layfield came to join us again. It was a great day with six inches of new snow, and a distance of four + miles, at the emergency airport area. Herb
American Ski Bowl
Hiking With Herb
On Feb. 10th, the hiking team decided to go to Pleasant Valley for a snowshoe outing. There were a few flakes of snow, four inches of new powder, and snow clinging to the trees. We were able to avoid the wind and saw glimpses of the sun. Fourteen degrees was the temp at the beginning, and about mid-twenties upon our return. You can never know what elements you will encounter, but this day was one of reflection. This team of hikers always takes what comes with a positive attitude! The six of us had a happy day. Herb
*We will meet again on Feb. 17th at 8 am in the YMCA parking lot.
Pleasant Valley
Hiking With Herb
It was a late day in January 2025. The snow conditions for snowshoeing in the mountains were marginal. So, six stalwart hikers decided to walk three miles up the Justice Douglas Road, west of Yakima. Patches of snow were on the hillsides along the way. However, the day was a crisp 18 degrees when we started out. As the day progressed, the temperature became much more tolerable. What more could be asked of a day with hiking friends on a cold winter day? We also enjoyed the renewed presence of Lowell Bossherdt. He is a great storyteller! If you are bored with winter, come join us and enjoy! We had conversations about the past year's hiking experiences and plans for this coming summer.
Next outing: Meet at 8 am in the YMCA parking lot on Monday, February 3rd. If you have questions, please call Herb at 509-517-8881.
Justice Douglas Road
Hiking With Herb
On Jan 13th, six of the snowshoeing team, went to the Maintenance Shop over White Pass. A sign directs hikers to the Sand Lake trail head. I took the team to a side trail however. The snow was nice and not packed down. Trees were glistening in the sun from the hanging snow. Rabit tracks were evident everywhere, and also some cayote tracks. We went three miles & 500 vertical. The day was crisp & fresh. Everyone enjoyed this outing. One wonderful sight that some of the team saw, was a silver fox sitting on a snow bank! On the web, factual information can be found on the beautiful animal. There could be one, in a litter of red foxes, that is silver. Also, some are native to the East side of the Cascades. We all can be surprised with our outdoor experiences. It was a good day!
Sand Lake
Hiking With Herb
On January 6th, 2025, our snowshoe team of nine members went to the American Ridge Ski Bowl. This ski bowl was created by a ski club and the forest service in 1935. It lasted until 1959. It had two rope tows and a lower area for skiing. It is located off Highway 410 on the Bumping Lake Road. We went approximately three miles, round trip. The elevation gain is 800 feet. Two new members joined our team: Claire Unruh and Yvonne Foster. They both enjoyed our outing. These snowshoe trips are challenging at times, but they give us time to experience the gifts of nature. We also share our life experiences, which promotes bonding in the group. Again, I must say that it is a gift to be with people who also recognize the value of the outdoors. If you join us, you can find this joy too. Herb
American Ridge Ski Bowl
Snow Park Snowshoeing with Tami Asars
The snowshoe team met at the YMCA parking lot, as usual. It was December 30th. We all agreed to go to Bumping Lake. Tami Asars decided to go with us but was arriving late from North Bend. I sent the team members ahead and waited for Tami. When she and I arrived at the lake, we couldn't find the others. We snowshoed together for the day. At the end, we were only ten minutes behind the team at the snow park. The day was somewhat confusing, but beautiful and very enjoyable! I will add that Tami is a special person. She has hiked all of the long-distance trails in the United States. She is the author of several outdoor books, and her photography is very professional. She could also lead our team on a westside trail. I am so fortunate to have had her as a friend for over 15 years.
On December 16th, our team of five snowshoers went to the White Pass Nordic Trail. It was a perfect day for snowshoeing. We stopped at the yurt to get trail passes. Nick Shultz and I got free passes because of our "young" (over 72) ages. Chuck and Syndie Wilson had their passes with them, but Jim Harwood had to pay for his. It was all worth the effort. We found a trail near Leach Lake in the trees. It was like a magic world—a world of puffy snowballs on the bushes and tall trees all flocked with snow. This picture of winter always renews our spirits. Come join us sometime and find renewal in your own life! Herb
White Pass Nordic Trail
It is fall, but winter is near. It is a perfect day of blue skies and sun. However, no words can express this vision before us. It is a day of internal passion of the soul. December 9th at Bumping Lake took our breath away as we snowshoed through powdered snow. There were ten of us who went 2.5 miles and found the joy of the day. Come with us next time and feel the joy of nature! Herb
Bumping Lake
Seven team members started the first snowshoe hike on December 2nd, 2024. The day was frosty with a bit of sun and blue skies. Syndie quietly helped us on her skis by breaking the trail while we followed. We help each other as a team. We had many distant views of snow-covered ridges, as well as many frost-covered trees. On the road to the trailhead of White Ridge, several deer ran across the road, and a flock of wild turkeys came into view. Nature is always wonderful! The snow was stiff powder, but was frozen under the trees. All seven of us had a great first day of snowshoeing! Herb
White Ridge Trail
Ashbaugh Park, near the Naches River
Nine of the hiking team went to Ashbaugh Park, near the Naches River. This park was a place for young people for many years until it closed for financial reasons. For many years, there was floating on inner tubes down the stream and hiking on the trails. We enjoyed our walk through the forest and near the river. It was cloudy and cold, but we had a pleasant day regardless of the weather. The walk was approximately two miles in length. After the hike, Syndie and Chuck invited us to their beautiful home on Naches Heights for chili, coffee, and a scrumptious dessert. What a wonderful visit! Many outdoor stories were shared. On Monday, December 2nd, we will meet again at 9 a.m. in the YMCA parking lot on 40th Ave. This time, bring your snowshoes just in case! Herb
On November 18th, 2024, five hiking team members went to Konnowac Pass near Moxee, WA. The day was cool with broken clouds. This hiking trail, called "Two Trees," was quite easy. The goal was to reach the towers at the top ridge. We succeeded and hiked for almost six miles round trip. It also has an elevation gain of about 800 feet. Doyle Hardy, Syndie Wilson, Nick Schultz, and I spent a pleasant day hiking together. It was a day of distant views and open ridges, non-confined and rich in a fall experience. We recommend this day hike for everyone. Keep moving! Herb
Konnowac Pass, near Moxee WA
Halfway Flat Campground, A Stoll on a Woodsy Road
On Nov 11th 2024, three hikers took a stroll on a woodsy road for 3 miles. This was once part of the Old Naches road. It now parallels the main highway across the Naches River. If you choose to go, follow highway 410 above Whistling Jack's, about 3 miles to Halfway Flat campground. Cross the bridge and turn left. Stop there and hike the road. The river is close by and near several camp grounds. Jim Harwood, Syndie Wilson and I had a most pleasant day. We shared the fall colors, a sprinkle of rain and life’s conversations. The sun peaked out now and then too. These moments in life give pause to a busy world. A sense of quietness fills your mind and body. You are welcome to follow our path. Let's meet Nov 18th at the YMCA parking lot at 8 am. See you then! Herb
On the 4th day of November, our team of seven hikers went back to the Little Rattlesnake Trail. This trail is very distinct for the first two miles. There is limited elevation. The basalt columns along the way are very impressive. You can hear the creek near the path. It is almost spiritual in its sound.
This fall canyon is dressed with golden leaves, tall ridges, and springs. I could hear the comments of wonder as we hiked. As the trail leader, I am glad this experience provided a richness for the day. As we reached the two-mile mark, the team decided to go further.
We went up a steep slope and continued on the original road. This road was once connected to the main canyon road. However, many years ago, a storm brought huge amounts of water down the canyon. This washed away much of the road. After a half-mile along Cow Puncher Ridge, we turned back to eat lunch. After a sprinkle of rain in the morning, we had sun and blue sky.
The elevation for the day was 700 feet, in a hike of five miles. It was a wonderful day! Come and join us for some fun. Herb
Rattlesnake Ridge Cow Puncher Ridge
On October 28th, our hiking team went up the Tieton River Trail. We crossed the metal swinging bridge and were on our way. Doyle Hardy, Sandi Vogel, Nick Schultz, Jim Harwood, and I enjoyed a wonderful day of 4+ miles. It was a day of education about a summer forest fire. Much of the forest along the river was heavily damaged. The charred trees stand as black sentinels pointing skyward. Promises persist, however, near these trees in the form of green vegetation. Life will return! It is obvious that this forest will take many years to recover. There was one miracle, however. The big oak in the meadow was untouched. It has most likely been standing as a monument for over 200 years. This oak has provided shade and given protection from rain and snow, as well as a place to eat our lunch. It has been a real gift of nature. Herb
Tieton River Trail ~ The Promise
On October 21st, our hiking team decided to explore the south ridge of the Rattlesnake Creek Canyon. The day was crisp, with blue skies and a light breeze. The hike was short but very pleasant. These five hikers are very compatible and share many hiking experiences. This ridge gives a great view of the Naches River Valley on Highway 410. We went 1,000 vertical feet above the valley. We could see forever! As the day progressed, a weather front came in from the north, but it never caught up to us. I really appreciate these fall days of color. It is my favorite time of year. It is also most enjoyable to hike with all members of the hiking team. Herb
Rattle Snake Creek Canyon
October 18th, 2024, was the day of choice for a hike to the Twin Sisters Lakes. Sandi, Syndie, Jean, John, Jim, Don, and I went three miles on a lovely trail in the Douglas Forest. We stopped at a peninsula at the second lake. The sun was warm, the lake reflected the surrounding mountains, and a cool breeze carried a hint of fall. The season of hiking is almost over, but we can look forward to snowshoeing soon. Can you picture in your mind the adventures in all the seasons that we have? I can. It keeps me alive!
*In addition, a word of caution: Mushrooms are prevalent in the area right now. Be careful what you collect! Herb
Twin Sisters Lake
On September 23rd to September 25th, Jerry Kobes, Nick Schultz, and I went to Lake Ozette, in the Pacific rainforest, for a beach hike. We stopped at the Ozette ranger station and hiked to Cape Alava on the boardwalk for three miles. The campsite on the beach was perfect. Several deer kept us company nearby. We heard many seals barking, but the lull of the ocean waves put us to sleep.
The next day, the beach hike was arduous but picturesque. Many sea stacks along the way looked eerie in the slight fog. We also hiked through a lot of kelp that had washed up on the beach by a sea storm. The beauty of nature is astounding! Just absorb where you are, hear the sounds, and feel the day... just watch out you don't step in the bear poop!!
We also visited the Makah Indian Museum on the Makah reservation. It is a beautiful building with many interesting artifacts. Well worth the visit for anyone who wants to know more about this Pacific Coast tribe. Herb
Lake Ozette
The September day we chose was a #10. We started the day with a hint of coolness, but lots of blue sky and sun. We went to the White River Trail, up the Basin Valley. It is wide and smooth with glorious views of Mt. Rainier and the Emmons Glacier. After hiking over a mile and a half, we climbed the Emmons Moraine and saw a beautiful azure lake. Sandi, Nick, Jim, and I went 700 vertical feet and just over three miles. Nature has its constant pleasures and provides an insurmountable gift.
Come join us... There are many places that still need to be explored. Herb
Mt. Rainier and the Emmons Glacier
Snow Lake is on the side of a glacial ridge. Many thousands of years ago, a glacier dug a deep depression, which later became a lake. It is a place of natural beauty, approximately 1.5 miles from Stevens Canyon Road. The trail has many cross steps and is well-used. Jim Harwood, Sandi Vogel, and I enjoyed a wonderful day of hiking with a view of Mt. Rainier. Another lake, called Bench Lake, has the distinction of capturing the reflection of Mt. Rainier on a clear day. It is located just off the main trail. We found the effort well worth all the rewards! The scent of fir, the taste of mountain blueberries, and the stillness of this environment filled our souls. Happy hiking, Herb
Snow Lake
Every Monday, Herb Schmidt leads a group on invigorating hikes through diverse terrains. These outings may involve traversing hilly landscapes or exploring a multitude of different trails, providing an exciting change of scenery each week. When winter arrives, the group doesn't retreat indoors. Instead, they swap their hiking boots for snowshoes and transform the frosty landscape into their playground, adding a delightful twist to their regular outdoor activities. The snowshoeing adventures during the winter months offer an exciting way to stay active and enjoy the beauty of nature, even in the chilliest weather. Herb
Little Bald Mountain
Six of the hiking team went to the Water Works Canyon trail on May 6th. The trail is located about three miles beyond the city of Naches on HWY 410. It was a real joy to hike together with friends. Along the way, there were bighorn sheep on the ridge. Flowers were in various stages of bloom during the month of May.
The freshness of the day, broken clouds, and light wind gave us joy to be alive. Hiking is a gift that helps you appreciate our natural environment. We hiked 4.5 miles and reached about 1,000 vertical feet. Seize and find joy in every day! Herb
Water Works Canyon Trail. "Joy"
In life, we have many choices, some with exuberance, others not so much. On April 28th, my wife and I drove to Hood River, OR, and met with our friends, Syndie and Chuck. We proceeded to go for gourmet pizza at Solstice Pizza place, the best pizza place EVER! I can still smell and taste it! The evening was filled with friendship and trail stories. Early on Monday morning, I met with seven members of the hiking team at the Catherine Creek trailhead. This is one of the many trails in the Columbia Gorge. We hiked 4.5 miles in a few sprinkles of rain and sun. The agenda for the day was rainbows, flowers, and soft breezes. We took an opportunity and succeeded!
Much of life is about choices and opportunities. Enjoy the present but have a vision for what could come next. Join us! Herb
Catherine Creek
Things don't always turn out the way you wish. However, what more could you wish for than having good friends, a sunny day, and cool breezes for a hike? Monday, April 22nd, was a fabulous day. The "Hanford Reach" is a place of several choices. We chose to hike near the Columbia River, over several hilltops, and back up the road for a total of five miles. The five of us could not wish for a better adventure! What is your wish? Herb
The Hanford Reach, A Wish
How To Get Involved
This group meets every Monday morning at 8 am. The group will meet in the parking lot of the YMCA on 40th Ave. Contact Herb Schmidt for more details.
Herb Schmidt
twoschmidts@live.com