Mt Adams showed us some great cross-country skiing, started off by our reunion with part of the Portland Gang at The Flying L Ranch.
The Flying L was located on 80 forested acres in the nearby town of Glenwood, and provided us with two cabins in the woods to share between the group. The Flying L also had a lodge, hot tub, and walking trails, and it was a good hang-out spot. Each evening we shared food preparation responsibilities (the cabins included full kitchens) for some delicious filling dinners, followed by games and goofing.
On the East Side Ski Trails located north of Trout Lake, we explored several loop trails at the base of the mountain around the 2600-3600 foot elevation levels for two days.
From SnowKing Sno Park, Lava Loop and Pipeline Loop ski trails meandered through forest on generally gentle grades in both directions. Pipeline Loop included views of Mt Adams since there appeared to have been more recent logging in some areas (it traveled through Gifford Pinchot National Forest), whereas lower Lava Loop was more enclosed by taller trees.
From Pine Side Sno Park (located just down the road from SnowKing), 4.8 mile Big Tree Loop traveled through old growth pine stands. Midway along the route was one of the largest known Ponderosa Pine trees at over 7 feet in diameter. The loop was very gentle and great for steady going while admiring the forest and mountain views.
Lava Loop trail cross-country skiing (Dan and Karen)
Pipeline Loop trail cross-country skiing (Dan)
Flying L Ranch cabins, by Mt Adams in Glenwood
Flying L Ranch hot tub (Karen and Dan)
Flying L Ranch all-you-can-eat home style breakfast
(Shayona, Karen, Dan, Scott, Kari, Anna, and Tim)
Mt Adams
The Big Tree by Big Tree Loop, largest known Ponderosa Pine tree
Big Tree Loop trail cross-country skiing (Karen)