Weekend Gem: Juniper Ridge and Boundary Traverse
Stellar views on the Juniper Ridge Trail
If you mention the name of the Dark Divide to the average hiker, you will see a look of confusion on their face. Fact is that these are some of the finest trails in the Gifford Pinchot, with outstanding views, side trips and isolation. From the 80’s eruption of Loowit, the ridge line trees have been replaced with mostly huckleberries, which turn brilliant shades of red and gold come late September. Start out from the Lambert Saddle TH near Randle, as some of the access points got washed out this past winter. This trip is best done in 3 days, I recommend that you hike 11.5 miles on TR 261 past great outcroppings like Sunrise Peak and Jumbo to Dark Meadow where there is plenty of small streams, a hot comity on these dry ridges. Once you cross the creek, make a left on a use trail over a small rise to great sandy camp spots in the meadows.
Mt. Adams from above Dark Meadows
The next day take a day pack on the Boundary Trail No. 1 to the Shark/Hat Rock area and beyond to Badger Lake, a 10 mile hike one way, or hike as far as you like. The final day hike back to your car and enjoy dinner at Huff and Puff, one of the best spots for grub on HWY 12. These trail allow motorcycles, so pack light as the trails are deeply eroded and you need to be quick on your feet. The motorcycles however have also kept out a lot of hikers as well, so the camping spots are quite primitive and the wildlife is amazing! The Juniper Ridge Trail is truly one of the best ridge line hikes in the Cascades, so get out there soon to enjoy the berries and lovely fall colors.
Mt. Rainier and Jumbo Peak
Juniper Peak summit view
Miles and miles of huckleberries
Badger Lake
