I had plan on doing a traditional hike of Hamilton Mt. but he parking lot was full with BCEP student so this was my plan B. There were several trails in Beacon Rock State Park I had not done so I took this opportunity to check them out. I started in the Equestrian Parking lot and started on the Equestrian Trail. My first new trail was to take off on the Lower Loop Trail. This trail had more old growths stumps then I have seen else where and gave an idea what was here before logging. Next I switch off onto the Hardy Ridge East that I had just hike as part of doing Hardy Ridge. From this trail I could take the Bridge Trail that was new to me. After crossing over Hardy Creek I arrived at Upper Hardy Trail that takes you to that the back side of Beacon Rock State Park. This trail quickly climbs and finally lead to The Saddle behind Hamilton Mt. summit and some good views of the area. From there I took the Don’s Cutoff trail to put me back on Upper Hardy Trail this in turn put me back on the Equestrian Trail and back to my car. Exploring the new trails was fun but doing a lot of road walking gets old fast so I was happy to be heading home.
By the numbers: Almost 10 miles, 1950 elevation gain, about 5 1/2 Hours on that trail.
