Hamilton Mtn 23-Nov-09
Posted: November 24th, 2009, 8:42 am
Because rain was forecast for Monday afternoon, there was time for a short hike in the morning and so I chose Hamilton Mountain. Judging from all the breathless weather reports about snow levels, I figured there might be snow higher on Hamilton and geared up for it with heavier boots and a snow basket for the hiking pole. The upper parking lot is closed for the winter and for repairs on the restroom, so the hike started out under overcast skies at the Beacon Rock parking area.
Rodney Falls was in full fury, with spray billowing out of the Pool of the Winds.
Despite the snow reports, the trail was in excellent condition and completely free of snow the whole way. Last February, there was 3-4’ or more snow at the summit and along the summit ridge. This time, nothing. So much for the heavier boots and snow basket.
In the hour and a half it took me to reach the summit, the overcast evaporated, the sky become clear blue, and there was even some sun. Breezy conditions had been forecast but there was no wind to speak on. There was the usual good view across to Table Mountain (and Adams just to the right), where it looked like there might be real snow above 2500’ or so.
The entire hike back was along trails dappled with actual sunshine, which was an unexpectedly pleasant experience for the Pacific Northwest in late November.
Rodney Falls was in full fury, with spray billowing out of the Pool of the Winds.
Despite the snow reports, the trail was in excellent condition and completely free of snow the whole way. Last February, there was 3-4’ or more snow at the summit and along the summit ridge. This time, nothing. So much for the heavier boots and snow basket.
In the hour and a half it took me to reach the summit, the overcast evaporated, the sky become clear blue, and there was even some sun. Breezy conditions had been forecast but there was no wind to speak on. There was the usual good view across to Table Mountain (and Adams just to the right), where it looked like there might be real snow above 2500’ or so.
The entire hike back was along trails dappled with actual sunshine, which was an unexpectedly pleasant experience for the Pacific Northwest in late November.
