Obstruction Point
Originally published May 28, 2015
The one memory about the drive to Obstruction Point that touched me the most was not the incredible view, nor the alarming lack of snow. It was the fragrance.
This time of year cool mountain breezes carry a distinct aroma through awakening SubAlpine Fir that first begin picking up notes from the soil of recently melted snow and blooming Avalanche Lily’s. It is much more prominent near temporary streams. And is one of a few wilderness experiences that fills me with with the breath of life.
All the windows as well as the sunroof were open in our Jeep Cherokee. This is when I caught the first scent. The rest of the eight mile drive to Obstruction Point was full of memories that make the present moment divine.
I will be in this area twice during the month of June and I wanted to check snow conditions. If this weather keeps up the Olympics with start growing Palm Trees. The rainforest moss is already dying at an alarming rate. What use to be long beautiful green strands of moss are turning brown and vanishing.
The first visit will be a seven day loop leaving Slab Camp to Deer Park and then traversing Grand, Cameron and Lost Passes. We will then take Gray Wolf Trail back to Slab Camp with a stop at Cedar Lake.
The second hike will leave Obstruction Point in what I have named my 6-Pass Route. It crosses Grand, Cameron, Lost, Hayden, Constance and Marmot passes. Exiting Upper Big Quilcene Trail.
