Mount Pilchuck State Park, WA
Yesterday we (Aleigh, Mark and myself) hiked Mt Pilchuck near Granite Falls. It was a full day with the trailhead two hours away. The hike took around 5hrs. The first mile is deep slush and mud that turns to snow the rest of the way up. Aleigh stepped off-trail once and was up to her knees, so the distance felt much longer and steeper with the constant threat of slipping. We each had the proper gear though with warm clothing, waterproof boots, micro-spikes and trekking poles. It was a great time with stunning views, especially at the top where there is an old fire lookout. We stayed at the top for probably an hour before heading back just before sunset. It was hard to leave.