Balcony...Dirty Harry's Balcony. You got to ask yourself... Do I feel lucky?
Ted had a football commitment in the morning, which meant our hiking options were limited due to time constraints, but it was a beautiful sunny sixty degree day and we had to get out and enjoy it.
Dirty Harry's Balcony via Birdhouse Trail is a 4.2 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near North Bend. It was a pretty easy hike with just over 1,300 feet in elevation gain. Unfortunately because it's close to the city and a beautiful day the trail was packed with nonchalant individuals who did not abide by hiking courtesies or COVID guidelines.
Hiking PSA
Hikers going up-trail should be given the right of way over hikers coming down-trail.
When hiking in a group, yield to single or pair hikers.
In our opinion, COVID guidelines such as spacing and wearing a mask when encountering a group not in your party still applies.
Lastly, common courtesy would be nice!
Thankfully there were a handful of lookout spots that helped space out the "sunny day hikers" and eliminated a large group at a single lookout.
It is always great to be in mountains, even with the large crowds, when you are able to be alone amongst the towering trees it recharges your soul. As the sunlight streaming through the trees and the silence of the forest becomes deafening and you are able to wash away all your worries.
Sorry it got a little poetic today...
Ted and Erin
To see all 10 hikes completed in 2021 check out the 52 hike challenge photo album HERE.
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