4th of July Overnight on Mount Townsend

My boyfriend and I hiked to Mount Townsend via the Little Quilcene trail, starting our ascent around 10am. We had car camped the night before near the trailhead, so it was easy for us to get a parking spot early. There were also some alpine strawberries growing near the trailhead that we munched on!

The trail is in incredibly good condition, just a little slick in steep spots due to the dry soil and loose rocks. I used poles which helped, especially while carrying my backpacking pack.

Wildflowers were in full bloom and breaks in the trees revealed glorious views. We even saw two rabbits and many Horned Larks up close! When we reached the top, we found a rocky patch to pitch our tent to reduce trampling the alpine flora. As backpacking up to this ridge gets more popular, it is important to watch where you step off trail so as not to disturb or destroy the delicate environment. I saw many groups of people with off-leash dogs. Please keep dogs on-leash in wilderness areas and national parks/forests!

This place is spectacular because of the 360-degree views that seem to go on forever. I never knew that I could camp up here until about a week ago, and I’m so grateful that we did. In the alpine wilderness, I feel like I have more space to just be, to return to my most basic needs and enjoy simple moments and breathing. It’s amazing how much time there is when societal pressures are not impinging on my mind, and there is no service to check in with the outside world.

As the sun went to sleep behind the Olympics, the dark landscape below filled with the colorful flashes and booms of fireworks. We could even see the shapes of the biggest ones. It really looked like the whole landscape was at war…

2AM revealed a bright Milky Way painted across the entire sky, with the town and city lights twinkling below. 5AM birthed a new day with a glorious sunrise.

I am so grateful for our wilderness areas and national parks and forests. Both days were beautiful, and served as the most peaceful and majestic Independence Day I have ever ha