Yoh! Hike to Lewis River Falls

It's been a while since I've made it to a Yoh! hike.  I'm glad that Scott & I were able to go with the group today down to the Lewis River Falls trail.  It was further than we had expected; we left Tumwater at 7:00 am, but didn't start hiking until 10:12.  It was really hot (88 degrees) and very humid.  It felt like we were in the South!  We hiked from the Lower Falls to the Upper Falls.  Unfortunately, the Middle Falls were inaccessible due to a washout on the trail.  We had to take a detour, which added some more mileage and elevation.  We did pass by a smaller waterfall on Copper Creek, which was pretty.  In all we hiked 6.18 miles per Charlie's GPS.  I'm glad to report I made it back with only one mishap-a trip & fall when my foot got stuck in a fallen tree.  But, overall, it was definitely worth the time & effort.  Another trail I can scratch off my hiking bucket list!



Lower Lewis River Falls

Tree hugger!

One of many bridges.



The rock cliff was beautiful!

And tall....

First view of Upper Lewis River Falls

Carrie & Teresa waded in. 

Coug Flag!  There is Pam in the background.  She jumped right in.  It was HOT!

The small falls over Copper Creek that we saw on the detour.

Birthday Hike at Silver Falls

For my birthday this year we went hiking at Silver Falls Trail on the east side of Mt. Rainier.  This hike has been on my bucket list for the past 4 years, but we've never gone because it is a really long drive to get there.   The trail is a little less than 3 miles in a loop with some small hills to traverse, but was in great condition.  When we reached the falls, Scott & Gabby climbed down to them, but it was a bit too steep for me.  The water was a beautiful blue and very clear.  So glad I finally got to go for my birthday!



Gabby is being one with nature.

First view of the falls.

This is where they climbed down.  Here I am up on the trail.

Upper falls.

Looking downstream.

Her new signature pose :)

Lots of bridges on this hike!

 

I loved this wildflower.  Looks like a Columbine.

 

My fav photo of the day!