Читать книгу One Night Wilderness: Portland. Quick and Convenient Backcountry Getaways within Three Hours of the City онлайн

67 страница из 73

Highlights

This short but exciting hike takes you into a small but very attractive parcel of roadless terrain not far from Packwood, Washington. Since most hikers prefer the more famous trails around the scenic wonders of nearby Mt. Rainier and the Goat Rocks, it’s not surprising that few people visit Cispus Point. Those who do are rewarded not only with solitude but with exceptional scenery, including plenty of views of those much more crowded attractions.

Getting There

Leave Interstate 5 north of Vancouver, Washington, at Exit 68 and travel 61 miles east on U.S. Highway 12 to an unsigned junction with Forest Road 20 near Milepost 127.6. Turn right (south) on this narrow and sometimes rough gravel road, staying on the main route at several minor intersections for 9.2 miles. Park at a pullout on the left about 0.2 mile past the signed trailhead for Jackpot Lake and just before the road leaves an old clear-cut.

Hiking It

The unsigned but obvious trail goes southwest along the edge of the clear-cut for 0.2 mile to a junction with the Klickitat Trail. Turn right and wander through a forest of mountain hemlocks and Alaska yellow cedars, which provide lots of welcome shade, but block most of the views. In July, wildflowers such as valerian, avalanche lily, columbine, wallflower, pink heather, bluebell, and lupine provide plenty of color, especially in places that get a bit more sun. Those breaks in the forest cover also provide views of bulky, snow-covered Mt. Adams to the south.