I'll take 30 degrees and snow over 36 degrees and rain any day

1/12/2024 Rattlesnake Mountain

My choice of hikes today was based primarily on logistical considerations. The weather was foggy and drizzly, so the views weren't going to be great anywhere, and so today it was more about the trail itself than the destination.

The Rattlesnake Mountain trail is a well-maintained trail in the Raging River Forest. This trail eventually connects up with the more popular Rattlesnake Ledge trail, but this is long through hike for another day. This area is very popular among mountain bikers and ATV enthusiasts. Even though I saw only a dozen hikers on the trail, the lot was overflowing with cars by the end of my journey, primarily bikers. There are a handful of places where the hiking trail crosses over roads and bike trails, but they've done a nice job of separating the various uses, so that you don't share the trail for more than those well-marked crossings.

I had the good fortune of dealing with just snow, and no rain until I was finishing up the hike. The snow fell lightly most of the way, and when I reached the opening near the top, there was a comfortable four or five inches, which made for a nice cushion under my feet. No need for microspikes or poles.

Interestingly, the snow allowed me to get by most of the day in a lightweight sweatshirt and no hat or gloves, even though I had all the winter gear. When it rains, even lightly, hours of water leaves you soaked and cold. However, snow can be brushed off easily, keeping you dry and warm, even when it's below freezing. This is a good strategy for winter days when rain is expected, to get to an elevation where it is snowing but there is not too much accumulation already.