I recently returned from a multi-night camping trip that started in Spokane. I was there for a wedding in the family, and thought I might as well camp my way back across the state. Due to forecasts for heat and thunderstorms, piecing together an enjoyable itinerary was a bit difficult, but I think I made the best of the time and the weather.
Riverside State Park
Our first night of camping was at Riverside State Park in Spokane. The Bowl and Pitcher is a busy spot in the afternoons (understandably so, due to the many trails, easy river access, and unique scenery). At sunrise, however, I had the river to myself. F/16, 1.3 seconds.
Maple Pass Loop
The next stage of our trip was three nights in the north Cascades; once there, we hiked the Maple Pass Loop trail, which is one of the most scenic hikes in the area. The wildflower displays were not as impressive as they've been other years I've visited, possibly because of how dry it's been this spring and summer. The hiking experience was also more strenuous than my prior visits due to the heat. Because of those factors, and because of the harsh lighting, I didn't do as much photography as I did on those prior visits, and didn't end up with any closeups at all. I think I made the best of the lighting with my landscapes, however.
Here's one nice patch of paintbrush that was still hanging on near Maple Pass. F/16.
Next, the classic view down to Lake Ann, with fireweed in the foreground. F/14.
On the way down from Maple Pass, I found this fun patch of pasqueflower seed heads. In the glare, I was having a hard time getting the focus point just right, so the foreground isn't as sharp as I wanted. On the other hand, I like that this isn't totally front-lit; the mountains are more interesting that way. F/14.
Below, a patch of heather still blooming near the trail's summit. I like how this ended up compositionally, but I'm less fond of the harsh midday lighting. F/14.
Finally from the Maple Pass Loop, a mountain view with some larch trees (I think) in the foreground. I liked how the gnarly branches framed the mountain. F/14.
Cutthroat Lake
The final hike was to Cutthroat Lake, also off the North Cascades Highway. This trail was much, much easier than the Maple Pass Loop, perfect for a very hot day. The lake itself is different from other mountain lakes I've visited, with a grassy/marshy shore and not a lot of access points to get right up to the water. On the other hand, the mountain views are quite dramatic for such an easy hike. At any rate, I like the landscapes below, and think they do a good job of showcasing the scenery. Both F/14.
That's it for now! I'm not sure whether I'll get out on another camping trip this year. Hopefully I can, but if not, here's to the rest of the summer's day hikes! This time of year is a trade-off - the wildflowers aren't as nice and I sometimes have to dodge smoke, but bugs and trail conditions tend to be more manageable. See you soon!
