The first time I went to Alder Flats was right after a snowfall period, in fact it snowed on that hike, so I went back to finally see if I would be able to catch a glimpse of a view. The weather threatened rain but it actually turned out quite fair. Aside from it being rather chilly, the overcast skies lurked just high enough so the mountains in Golden Ears park were visible.
The trail up to Alder Flats is the stepping stone to the grind of Golden Ears slightly beyond. It snakes through the woods with a sense of minimal elevation gain. Ice still claimed shallow streams-- and made part of the trail slippery. Similar to last time there were hardly any people on the west canyon trail, however, the snow looked well used near the end of the trail.
I can honestly say my previous adventure was unmatched to this one. The second the trees thinned Golden Ears’ sharp cliffs lined with snow overshadowed the valley. From the helicopter pad the best view can be seen. A mountain with waterfalls frozen over, snowy ridges, and unwavering trees all make up the unique 360 landscape view. Naturally with such a pleasant backdrop photos are a necessity (some strange priorities). There is something about being so close to the peak of Golden Ears (realistically far) that just makes the challenge of conquering it loom over those who enter the falts.
Considering the impending snow forecasted, Alder Flats was one of my last adventures for a while.