We hiked to Noble Knob via the Dalles Ridge Trail from FSR 42. From this trailhead it is a 5 mile rt hike with 600 ft of elevation gain to Noble Knob. We had fun exploring the nearby area for a 6 mile hike and 900+ ft of elevation gain. There were lots of wildflowers in bloom at the parking area at the beginning of the trail.
Our hike started in the clouds and there was lots of dew covering the ground and the plants.
For most of the ridge hike, the trail was in the forest. On the way towards Noble Knob, we could not tell if there were any views because of the low clouds.
From the ridge, the trail drops down to an open area with a 3 way junction, the middle trail leads up to Noble Knob.
When we reached the top of Noble Knob, we had a brief view of the very top of Mount Rainier before the clouds obstructed our view. We decided to spend some time wandering around the area.
Looking the opposite way, we could see Lake George below and interesting hill to explore.
But first, we went to the other end of Noble Knob, here we had a view down to Twentyeight Mile Lake.
Some nice large rock formations besides the wildflowers in the area.
We followed a boot path over to the nearby hill.
More large rocky areas
We could see down to Lost Lake.
Wide angle view from the other side of this hill, Noble Knob in the far background.
We then decided to hike back up to eat lunch atop Noble Knob and
we were rewarded with a great view of Mount Rainier!
With the clouds lifted and views now to be seen, our hike back seemed like a new trail.
trail from Noble Knob back up to Dalles Ridge
We found there were views of Mount Rainier along the Dalles Ridge trail also.
With wildflowers in bloom, we saw lots of butterflies.
Some of the wildflowers in bloom and other flora we saw along the trail today:
There was so much lupine in bloom it gave a lovely fragrance to the spring air and added color to the burnt area.
So gorgeous!
We enjoyed the hike, both the wildflowers and views going back the way we had come. Took a break along the creek.
