Hamilton Mtn 23-Jan-09
Posted: January 24th, 2009, 10:23 am
Friday I did a quick hike up Hamilton - up via the Hardy Ridge trail and down via the summit ridge and road system. Conditions were clear but cold, with moderate wind in a few places on the way up. There were some nice icicles at the Cave of the Winds.
The trail up was entirely free of snow until about 100' from the summit, which was also being hit by pretty brisk winds. I had thought about hiking up Table but looking across from Hamiliton could see that the upper reaches of Table were enveloped in blowing clouds - better to be on Hamilton with a view.
The only significant snow on the hike was on the trail from the summit to the service road. I fould it to be all very hardpacked, with no post-holing - but there were a few slick spots. I was the only car in the parking lot when I started, and there was only one more car there when I got back. Granted it was a Friday, and yes I don't mind having a lot of solitude, but I hope folks aren't passing on Hamilton (and Dog) just because it's "winter", as these two are pretty accessible (and good ways to stay in shape) almost all the time.
And nice views of Mt. Hood at several spots along the trail.
The trail up was entirely free of snow until about 100' from the summit, which was also being hit by pretty brisk winds. I had thought about hiking up Table but looking across from Hamiliton could see that the upper reaches of Table were enveloped in blowing clouds - better to be on Hamilton with a view.
The only significant snow on the hike was on the trail from the summit to the service road. I fould it to be all very hardpacked, with no post-holing - but there were a few slick spots. I was the only car in the parking lot when I started, and there was only one more car there when I got back. Granted it was a Friday, and yes I don't mind having a lot of solitude, but I hope folks aren't passing on Hamilton (and Dog) just because it's "winter", as these two are pretty accessible (and good ways to stay in shape) almost all the time.