Summer is finally here, as the first of June brings hot weather and beautiful sunny skies to Mt. Spokane. Although there are still a few patches of snow up high on the mountain (and I’m sure dedicated hardcores can still get a turn or two in), summer is here in force!
There was a moose about halfway up Two-Face this morning, no doubt enjoying the fresh greenery popping up all over the mountain. It’s really beautiful up here in the spring and early summer, as the bright green new growth contrasts with the dark green alpine firs and rocky ground.
There are so many hiking trails available up here, and fun day hikes for all ability levels, which you will see more posts about as we get further into the summer. Not only can you hike the mountain trails and ski area terrain, there are tons of trails within Mt. Spokane State Park accessible from several easy locations. There’s old CCC cabins all over the mountain, a fire lookout on top of Quartz Peak, and the remains of the grand, historic original lodge that burnt down in 1952. And of course, don’t forget the historic Vista House at the top of the mountain - did you know that you can drive to the top of the mountain in the summer? Although the road doesn’t usually open until the end of June or July - parts of it are still covered in snow.
Local mountain bikers know that Mt. Spokane is somewhat of a mecca for biking trails. Don’t forget the views! I’m not much of a biker myself so I can’t report on that scene much, but I see bikers up here all the time, blowin past me on the numerous single track trails all over the mountain.
Stay tuned throughout the summer for more posts about day hikes, trail routes, wildlife, and the summer happenings at Mt. Spokane. There will be road construction just inside the State Park entrance, starting later in June, so access will be somewhat limited for a period of the summer, but recreational trails will still be accessible from the Park entrance. Also, if you do come up to the mountain during the week and the gate to Lodge 2 is open, be aware that it can close any time, and usually is done so by 4pm.
