Upper Twin Lake Hike

Spontaneous trunk cracking

Early start, communication snag, regroup and hike! The warm, overcast day began with a gathering of nine hikers eager to hit the trail. We reconnoitered at the Barlow Trailhead and headed for Twin Lakes. The sweet smell of fragrant pine, hemlock and Douglas fir scented the breeze as we walked along the dampened trail. It was a perfect hiking day with a promise of blue skies and warming temperatures. 

The forest had a thinned, diseased look to it due to a bug infestation. According to this report by the Pacific Biodiversity Insititue "The primary insect damage to trees in the Mt. Hood National Forest in recent years has been caused by mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae),firengraver beetle (Scolytus ventralis) and balsam woolly adelgid,(Adelges piceae)  In the past, western spruce budworm(Choristoneura occidentalis) has caused significant damage in some areas. Most of the recent tree mortality has been caused by mountain pine beetle. "

Dead logs across the trail

There were downed logs across the trail but a renewal in the undergrowth is seen in sprouting fir trees amid the dead ones as well as luscious new growth tips on existing live trees . Bear grass was just starting to bloom near the trailhead and a few other small forest flowers dotted the greenery with their bright colors. The six mile hike took us to various decision points as we wound our way toward Upper Twin Lake. This was the one we missed last year due to trail chatting and inattention. This year, with the help of a map, we made all the right turns and arrived at a lovely rippling lake surrounded by a forest of evergreens. The mosquitoes were delighted with fresh "treats" provided by hiker flesh, but a quick application of bug repellent and the donning of shirts and jackets put a stop to the feast. 

Forest toilet. Ewwww. 

Meadow Death Camus

Upper Twin Lake

Upper Twin Lake, another view

We enjoyed a relaxing lunch spot and wondered at the metal forest toilet filled with campfire debris. Ah, those unanswered questions. Returning on the same trail, we made good time back to the cars and proceded to Govy, i.e. Government Camp, for lattes and huckleberry ice cream cones. An Olympic skiing medalist, Ted Ligety, was signing posters at a skiing camp so we got in line for our share of fame nearness. Little grandsons will be delighted with their signed posters soon.  Ted was a true professional with the kids, signing upwards of 200 posters and smiling consistently for all the photo requests. He is a Shred ski rep. The day was full of friendship conversations, encouragement and laughter. Join us in two weeks for another great trek into the Northwest's bounty of trails.