Snow Mountain Ranch - Cowiche Canyon Loop

We had a rare Friday free on what was predicted to be a rainy day west of the Cascades so we headed east to Snow Mountain Ranch and hiked the Cowiche Canyon Loop. We had planned on the 9.2 mile loop, but we ended up following the 6 mile one by accident.

We headed out at about 9 AM and took the trail clockwise. The first mile lulls you to sleep with almost no elevation gain, but just when you get comfortable the next 2 miles provide you with all the elevation gain the loop has to offer - 1200 feet or so.

It is made a little more difficult by a strong persistent wind that blew through the area. We kept our lightweight outer shells on the entire time because of the breeze.  After we ascended to the radio tower we turned right and headed back down with the wind in our faces until we were low enough down from the ridge.

The entire loop took less than 2 hours to complete with 25 lb. packs. There were wildflowers in bloom and lots of fresh sage to scent the trail. We headed out to Prosser for a little wine tasting before heading home for another hike Saturday.

Be very well and more soon.....