|
HIKE |
Bandera |
|
ROUTE |
|
|
DATE |
05/25/2006 |
|
ATTENDEES |
Chris S, Dan, Don, John (Newbie!), Mark, and Matt. |
|
NOTES |
PHOTOS
Photo credits: Chris M.
TRAIL1EPORT
Hello, TNAB'ers:
Giving in to democratic rule, it was decided that we'd hike Bandera this week (originally scheduled for last week of August). Turned out to be a good choice, because the weather was a bit damp.
The Crew: Chris S, Dan, Don, John (Newbie!), Mark, and Matt (Special Guest Appearance)
Matt was running late, so the rest of us met up at the trailhead. The plan: to move as fast as possible, reach the summit, and get out of the rain! Bandera starts at 2200 ft el, is less than four miles one way, and tops out at 5200 ft el, for 3000 ft el gain. We made quick work of the Ira Spring Trail, when Matt, operating in turbo mode (or normal) finally caught up to us.
Then it was time to scale the steep, narrow fork up to Bandera. About halfway up, the precip began to thicken - is it snowing? Yup. I just love Washington weather. :) On the ridge, the wind picked up from the south, driving snow into my right ear. Why didn't I bring a hat?
The ridge still has a fair amount of snow on it, but nothing that would slow us down. We gained the summit by 7:30 PM - awesome time! There was seven of us total, including John's dog, Tokul. We rested in a slightly sheltered area, when Matt inquired about the elevation (5200 ft), which he then noted was still below his place in Denver. :P
With no views to enjoy, we didn't stick around long. We could see I-90 pretty well - oh joy. It was shortly before 9:00 PM when we exited the trail. Only one thing to do we we're done this early - visit the North Bend Bar & Grill for some well-deserved nourishment. Despite the poor weather, it was still a great hike, with great folks. Woo Hoo!
Next Hike: Tentatively Snoqualmie. Backup plan - Teneriffe (aka West Green Mtn)? We should have good weather by July...
Cheers! -Mark