Started at 0830, finished at 1300. Total distance ended up being about 11 miles with 1400 ft of elevation gain.
We had a cold and foggy start, 33 degrees when we got out of the car. Once we were on trail we warmed up pretty quickly. The trail runs at a very slight incline for about three miles. I remarked to J. that we had picked a ridiculously easy hike for the day, about five minutes later we hit the switchbacks. The view from the top of the switchbacks was worth the sweat, fog below and clouds above with a clear band of blue sky in-between.
Once through the switchbacks we started downhill again. From the switchbacks to Five Mile Camp we encountered several downed trees across the trail. No apparent hazards, and not hard to circumnavigate, but still a gentle reminder that the landscape is constantly in flux.
The number and varieties of mushrooms alongside the trail continues to amaze me. We spotted several beautiful Turkey Tail specimens, and once I was looking the neon orange of Witches Butter jumped out at me from nearly every downed tree near the trail.
Five Mile Camp looks like a charming and peaceful spot to spend the night. There were 2-3 fire pits and easy access to fresh water from the river. The sky had cleared up by the time we started back to the car, sending intense rays of godlight between the trees. We passed a few groups on the way down, and several dogs. The trail can be tight in some places and make it difficult for dogs to pass each other.
And here, I am. 