Colonel... freaking... Bob was one of the hardest hikes I had done at that point. It was long, steep but totally rewarding when we made it to the top. We began the trek from the south at the Pete's Creek Trailhead which meant a shorter trek than coming from the north but still had some intense elevation gain.
Trail info
Miles- 8.8 miles
Elevation gain- 3546ft
The trail starts out pretty mild and in a wooded surroundings. There is a decent creek that has to be crossed and when we went it was flowing pretty good. We found a large log that was downed across the trail just up stream that was perfect to cross. You can see the log from the trail, it is very large, and sturdy for crossing.
This is cougar and bear country, bears are seen regularly on the trial so please take caution and be prepared for such an encounter. We saw more wild blueberries then our belly could take, but it was the perfect trail provided snack. This being said it is also bears favorite snacks also so I really can't emphasize enough to be cautious and alert on this trail.
You will soon come to some good switchback and elevation gain that holds some spectacular views, then you will have a decent decent to a creek that is a very easy crossing and just after this creek crossing there is a nice little camp site at Moonshine Flats for an overnight stay.
After the camp site is when the real fun begins and you make the huge ascend up to the rocky peak. This is a grueling ascent but like so many other peak hikes the last leg is always an ass kicker.
On a clear day the views are out of this world. You can see many of the PNW's volcanoes, the entire Olympic mountain range, Lake Quinault, and the ocean. There is a peak sign-in in a pvc pipe container that is secured to the mountain top, so don't forget to sign-in!!
Another bit of advice (because we did not plan well) bring a good meal something energy replenishing to eat at the top, you will need it. We only had a couple Gatorades and minor snacks, we needed a sandwich or wraps. I can say since this hike I have not made this mistake again.
Another bit of advise is to bring and use trekking poles on the venture down the mountain. It will save your knees and hips from the impact of this rocky descent.
As you cross the creek take a look back and look at the peak you just climbed cause it it an impressive one for sure.
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