What a muddy mess of a trail. The first mile up (and back) I picked up at least 1-2 lbs of mud per boot. The mud situation gets much better after the first mile, but never goes away completely. But the trail is beautiful. I managed to hike it in a morning and it wasn’t hot. There was only one other group of hikers.

I used the AllTrails app to help find the trailhead. Moved the gate to get in and parked past the creek, but make sure you have good AWD because the mud is deep. Might be better off just walking in if you don’t. My Subaru performed, but the other group of hikers almost got their truck stuck.

When I reached the “top” of Sutton Mtn (per All Trails) there was a very pretty view, but I decided to hike up the hillside on the side of the trail (you’ll see a little trailer with solar panels and some sort of communication setup). That short hike up delivered the astounding views that I was expecting but be careful- you’re pretty much walking up to the edge of a cliff! Spectacular views though. My photos won’t do it justice.

It’s a slippery slog back down the hill and hiking poles came in very handy, as did my extra pair of shoes waiting for me in the car.  This one took longer than expected because of the mud, but it was a pretty trail, beautiful country, and it was nice to feel like I had it all to myself. Very peaceful.