Snoquera Falls-5.13.12

Snoquera Falls- South Cascades, Chinook Pass
#5, 5 miles, 1500 ft

My first hike back out on the trail since last fall and I was eager and hungry to stretch my legs.  Despite the beauty and height of the falls I felt more than a little disapointed when it seemed the trail abruptly ended.  It seemed the trail turned and twisted back across the rock slide and I thought it would lead me back around the falls but instead dumped you back on the main trail just below.  In a moment of confusion I went back to base of the falls and stared across the roaring spring runoff.  I couldent quite tell but it seemed the trail cut across...but I was a little curious.  So I made 3 seperate attempts to try and scramble over and around the slippery boulders scattered across the creek bed.  After the 3rd try I decided not to press my luck and just call it a day.

Leaving the trailhead at 10:00am I decided to head towards Rainier to enjoy some clear views.  The road to Rainier National Park was open and made for a nice morning drive.

While heading down Hwy 410 I noticed several cars parked off the road at what looked like a trailhead just past the snoquera road.

Palisades Trail
#6, 8 miles, 2800 ft
Beautiful trail that meanders along the Ranger Creek.