| Moran State Park - Mount Constitution (6.7 m., ~1400 vert. ft.) |
[Jun. 18th, 2006|05:10 pm] |
While on Orcas Island for a wedding this weekend, I had some time to kill and decided to wander around in Moran State Park, located right across the road from my hotel. I of course selected one of the most arduous hikes from the guidebook even though I haven't exercised in three weeks due to my elbow. With Clif Bar and water in tow, I set off from Mountain Lake up Little Summit Trail.
Little Summit Trail is a mere 0.9 miles but it is pretty steep and passes through some beautiful old growth forest. I did not see another human being on the trail, which is a first in a state park. The old trees creak menacingly as you walk along the trail--very spooky!
At the top, you can walk to the cold springs or continue onward to Mount Constitution. I chose not to make any detours.
The trail to the summit runs along the side of a ridge that caused me some occasional vertigo. The views are breathtaking but it was difficult to look at anything other than my feet on the trail.
I reached the summit (about three miles from the trailhead) in just under two hours. Ate my Clif Bar. Drank my water. Enjoyed the views from the lookout tower (from which you can see Vancouver, B.C.). Ran into friends from the wedding party who had hiked up from a higher elevation and felt proud of myself.
Next, I hiked down to Twin Lakes. This was a relatively steep descent on switchbacks comprised largely of loose pine cones. Like a moron, I was wearing cross training shoes instead of hiking boots and had a difficult time keeping my balance at times.
From Twin Lakes, I took the trail along the west side of Mountain Lake back to the trailhead. This part was completely level and a little boring, scenery-wise.
I'm still a little sore but satisfied with the hike. I only saw three or four other hikers on the trails, which still amazes me. Seems like most people drive to the summit.
Photos forthcoming. |
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