Hike #26: Iron Creek Falls
June 20, 2015
Distance: 500 feet. Yes, feet.
Elevation Gain: Negligible.

That’s right folks, I’m halfway there! And what better way to reach the midpoint of this goal than with a girls’ camping weekend among mountains, trees, and waterfalls.

Clare and I drove out to Iron Creek Campground on Friday night, arriving around 8 and getting a lovely corner campsite, D72, right beside a water spicket and some of the greatest trees.  

In the morning, we took the short 1.5 mile loop trail around the campground and along the Cispus River. Then we spent a couple hours relaxing at camp until Julia, Lauren, and Taline arrived.

After eating lunch and setting up the tents, we piled into one car and drove south on 25 to Iron Creek Falls.

An extremely short trail took us to a gorgeous pool with a plunging waterfall, and we spent a couple hours exploring and wading through the cool water.

We also managed to get a few group photos with the self-timer. Moderately successful, too! The first one was a practice shot, but I love it!

We spent the evening catching up and chatting around the campfire. The next morning we packed everything up and took a short ramble to the river.

We found a Woodland Sprite!

And gave her a new home.

Finally, some mountain-viewing. Mount St. Helens from the Bear Meadow lookout area, and Mount Rainier from the drive back towards home.

A totally lovely weekend with truly wonderful friends. Happy summer!