Trip Tales

Saturday turned out to be a partial rainy day and warmer than usual temperatures, but that didn't stop us from taking a hike to Avalanche Lake. The temperatures dropped in the afternoon and it started snowing so we decided to hike the new Mt. Jo trail from the Loj. Climbing the short trail to the summit where we encountered the new ladders which made for a much easier and safer climb on the rocks to the summit. Extremely windy but the views from there never disappoint. When we awoke on Sunday, the temps were in the single digits and windy, but we headed over to the Olympic Center to do the newly constructed Mt. Van Hoevenberg trail to the summit and continue down the old trail for a thru-hike. Amazing views at the top but so windy, we headed down to a sheltered area and had our lunch. A perfect day to enjoy all the wonders of the snow-laden woods. Nothing better after a frigid day of hiking to go back to the Loj and sit by the fireplace. On our last night, we had the opportunity to listen to some of the staff and visitors playing guitars and mandolins and singing rock/folk songs. Come join us next year!!!!!