Loch Katrine Bench 2.18.03

Taking the risk as being viewed a copycat, I thought Mike Collins report on Twin Peaks interesting. Having already been to Loch Katrine I thought a return trip was in order. The road was without snow until 2600ft, and progressily growing deeper until the road ends near 4100ft. Snowshoes were a must and extra float would have been helpful. I had not planned for an attempt on Twin Peaks and with heavy snow and what looks like a tricky approach to the two summits, I was content to have my lunch on the bench that overlooks Loch Katrine. It was very nice to see so much new snow. Trip Length approx 10 miles roundtrip Total time 3:50 Total climb 2500ft

Taylor River Road 2.14.03

The wife and I had a little Valentines day hike with the weather staying dry and pleasant we headed of the road that parallels the Taylor River. We took the kids, Baxter the beagle (his first hike) and Tanner the moose as we like to refer to him. We only went for an hour, due to Tanners recent ACL surgery. I was very pleased with Tanners new knee, only 8 weeks from surgery and already able to hike. I sure have missed my hiking partner. All in all a great day to enjoy a leisurely stroll in the woods.

Amalbis Mt.2.5.03

I was looking for a snowhoe climb where I didn't just carry them. As I suspected there was plenty of snow covering the road. I climbed to the first intersection and climbed straight up the hill until I rejoined the road. I passed two guys on skis at the next junction. I continued on the eastern road and climbed to the very obvious pt (approx 4600ft). The views were stunning in every direction. Great views of Ranier to the south and the Dutch Miller group to the NW, and also Kachess Lake directly beneath the summit. I decided to follow the western trail out and passed the same two skiers I had met previously. The weather couldn't have been better and there was plenty of untracked powder above 4000ft.

Total distance approx 11 miles Total climb 2100ft Total time 3:40