Saturday, December 27, 2025

2025.12.27. Mailbox Peak

12/27, Saturday. Sunny! Almost. I woke up late, had a budget of 5 hours to hike Mailbox Peak (old trail) before returning the car.

Our snow level is low, but with the wet December, Mailbox had plenty snow. Lots of lacy tree branches: quite pretty. Once out in the open, the track was clear and easy (a lot of people). Spikes are enough. I carried snowshoes all the way up and down, never used them.

About 4-5 grey jays up at the summit, trying to steal your lunch. No wind. I waited a bit to catch the birds on the mailbox, while protecting my cheese scone. Overcast to the SE: cannot see Rainier.

I was a bit earlier than expected: c2c, including layer break, bio break, and changing shoes, all in less than 5 hours.

Drove to Snoqualmie Falls. It's been ages since I last came here. As I was near the Falls, saw people walking. So I turned around and parked at Gateway Park. Walked 0.5 mile along a designated trail. Quite pleasant, especially on the bridge over Snoqualmie River.

A lot of people. I was a little too late for sunset. Salish Lodge looks pretty with holiday lights.