Nesmith Point 26 Mar 2015

Since Andrea and Mike are coming this summer and we are planning a 55 mile journey around the Sisters, I need to get in shape.  I thought I would try to hike one long, steep trail a month to prepare.  Nesmith Point is my first one.  9.8 miles with 3800 ft gain.  I did okay - it was a tough, rocky and dicey trail (lots of landslides and rocks).  So many parts of the mountain look like they are going to fall down.  Arrived at the summit in 2 hr 45 min and was down in 2 hr 20 min.  Next month - Mt Defiance?
This isn't the most scenic hike and the view is so-so, but it is a good workout.  I would prefer to hike Dome Rock though.  It is almost as steep.

Nesmith Point Map

into the woods in the morning fog

sun as I near the ridge

view of Mt St Helens from the summit (sort of - you have to take a user trail to see this)

only two flower types blooming, Trillium and violets

rock pillows

Oregon Grape