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Mount Baldy

  • May 31, 2023
  • 1 min read

5/31/2023

Due to the ever-lengthening daylight hours in late May, I was feeling the need for an afterwork hike. I settled upon Mount Baldy and drove out to the Kachess Ridge Trailhead near Easton. I didn’t get started hiking until after 5:30 pm.


I immediately crossed a footbridge that spanned Silver Creek and took note of a small, but very pretty waterfall nearby. Then, the trail didn’t waste any time getting down to business as it climbed steeply up to Para Point. There was a flat section of the ridge near 3500’, but that was the only reprieve from the relentless uphill.


Wooden bridge over a small waterfall in a lush green forest. Sunlight filters through trees, casting shadows on the path. Tranquil scene.
Bridge across Silver Creek complete with a pretty waterfall
A dirt trail winds through a lush, green forest with tall trees. Sunlight filters through, creating a peaceful and natural atmosphere.
Immaculate trail

After catching my breath at Para Point, I turned east on the Domerie Peak Trail and rambled out to Mount Baldy (whose summit was indeed bald), enjoying the views down to Cle Elum Lake and the vibrant balsamroot blooms. No snow was seen on the entire ascent.


Aerial view of a serene lake surrounded by lush green mountains and forests. The sky is partly cloudy, creating a calm and peaceful mood.
Looking down on Cle Elum Lake from near the summit
Yellow wildflowers bloom on a grassy mountain slope under a blue sky. Pine trees and distant mountains create a serene, scenic backdrop.
Balsamroot was blooming

The way down went fast, and I was treated to a nice light show as rays of sunlight burst through the thicker cloud cover to the west.

Sunbeams break through clouds over a serene lake and mountain landscape. The light creates dramatic contrast, evoking a peaceful mood.
Sun rays
Sunlit forest trail with green trees and fallen logs in foreground. Mountains and clouds visible in the background, creating a serene mood.
Smooth trail on the way down

I got back to my car in 2 hours and 20 minutes RT.


Final Stats: 7.1 miles / 2923 feet of gain

Topographic map shows a red trail route through mountainous terrain, passing Mount Baldy and Domeir Peak. Contour lines and creeks visible.

 
 
 

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