Friday, May 28, 2021

Stan's Overlook, Rattlesnake Mountain, 2021


 


The sign right at the beginning of the trail



 There are a couple more signs along the trail including this one posted just before reaching Stan's

We have been to Stan’s Overlook three or four times.  The last time we went so much foliage had grown up that the view was non-existent.  This time the first thing I noticed was that the brush had been cut and the view was back!  This hike is fairly close to the city making it popular.  There is a picnic table at Stan’s and a couple of benches facing toward the territorial view. 


Territorial view from Stan's Overlook

Stan’s is a 5 miles RT, with a 1050 ft gain.  The temperature was cool and it was cloudy with some sun making an ideal hiking day.  In addition to the hiking trails this area also has mountain biking trails.  We could hear the bikers in places but could not see them except where the two paths crossed.  The trail crew has installed “gates” at the crossings and signs showing which trails are for hikers only.  Originally gates were necessary to keep the bikes and horses off the hiking trail; however, the new bike trails have removed the temptation.

 

This was the only section of stairs. 




Scotch Broom blooming in the meadow by the power lines



Close up of the red and yellow Scotch Broom blossoms



One of the gates on the hiking trail


We take our time for photos, and watch for flowers and wildlife.  We saw lots of Vanilla Leaf, Fringe cup, Fairy Bells, Trillium, Elderberry, and, while an invasive still pretty, Scotch Broom including the red-yellow version.  There was some birdsong but we did not see birds or animals. 

 


Fringe Cup


Trillium and Starry Solomon Seal




Elderberry



Fairy Bells



Vanilla Leaf


As Bob points out despite its name, there are no snakes on this mountain.  The Discover Pass is required.  The trail head has an outhouse.  The Snoqualmie Point Park, a short stop away from the trail head, has a public restroom with flush toilets and running water.

 

Count for the day: 5 miles RT, 1050 elevation gain, 23 hikers, 7 bikers, and two dogs.   


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