Smith Creek - Ape Canyon loop, Mount St Helens

We will attempt to do the Ape Canyon/Smith Creek loop.  This is an epic ride that will be tough because of the distance and elevation gain/loss involved.   I think the snow should be mostly gone by this weekend because of the warm weather.  If it hasn't, we will always get in a good ride by doing a Smith Creek out/back.  Total miles because of the extra 5 miles on paved road will be about 45.

Please advise if you will be going.  You can e-mail me at ujelang@aol.com, or call me at 503 772 0471

Oh, bring plenty of water, I recommend well over 3 litres of water.  If the weather is going to be hot you will need all the water you can carry.  If anyone has a water filter it would be a good idea to bring one along. 

I can host up to 3 car loads of people at Lake Merwin Campers Hideaway on Saturday night if there is any interest.  That would allow us an early start out in the morning to beat the heat, or a bit more relaxed start to the day by cutting an hour off the commute.  You will have to bring your sleeping bag/air mattress.  Accomodations can be on a deck, on the floor of an out building, or there are spots to pitch two or three smaller tents.  Dinner could be at Nick's in Amboy.  We could leave about 6 pm or so from Portland.  Let me know if there is interest in this idea.

David Anderson