Humes, Sweet Humes

Three years ago, we hiked to a place called Humes Ranch with some friends. Yesterday, we had the opportunity to hike there again with the same wonderful friends. We had been trying for weeks to find a time to do this. One week, The Chef had backfill to do, then another a sprained ankle kept us apart. However, it was well worth the wait as the weather on Saturday was perfect for a long hike through the woods and being with friends. There were a few more of us than last time as one mom and one daughter did not go then. So, the picture below, shows the contrast in ages, but you can see some are missing :) You can probably tell who's who, but, boy, have they changed in three short years!
Upon reaching the ranger station, we started the harrowing 5 mile drive up a narrow, one-lane, gravel road and arrived at the trailhead safely. Donning our packs, filled with snacks, lunch and plenty of water, we started out at about 11 AM. The first mile stretched along this ridge, overlooking the river valley where this picture was taken. Then we "plunged" down a steep 1/2 mile trail to the valley, traversing a switchback. On the way down, we saw many deer, grazing and seemingly unaware and unafraid of us. After reaching the bottom, there was the Goblin's Gate side trail that we ventured into with some trepidation :) What a lovely spot. (Last time we were here we spotted a bear across the river in the meadow). We spent time relaxing and enjoying sitting on the large rocks, overlooking the narrow river gorge full of HUGE trees downed by the spring run off. In fact, we enjoyed this spot so much, it was difficult to leave!
However, we continued through the forest along the river. Soon after, the girls spied a "beach" and wanted to stop again. We encouraged them to keep moving as we knew we still had far to go to our destination. However, we all gave into temptation later at another picturesque spot. We lingered only for a few moments to play in the rocks and the water, much to their dismay.
We arrived without any further stops or difficulties at Humes Ranch soon after a short hike. We entered up into the meadow from under a huge cherry tree with beautiful blossoms. We explored the cabin, evidently newly refurbished with cedar, but still retaining its original charm. This cabin was built in 1897 by Humes himself and he lived here alone, without a family. His nearest neighbor, Michael, about a mile away in his own cedar cabin. Quite lovely, but very remote. We lingered here for awhile, enjoying the solitude and the loveliness. The girls enjoyed sitting on the back porch overlooking the valley, watching the deer. (final count for the day was 27. We did not see any of the infamous elk, but we did see a lot of elk and deer scat as well as bear scat once!)
We were toying with hiking down into the river valley again to see the suspension bridge. After talking with two hikers, we decided to go for it. It added over a mile to our 6.6 mile hike, but was well worth it. We saw more deer as we crossed a meadow with camp sites. We also spotted the cables used for hoisting up your food when you stay there to keep them away from bears! Sounds like bears might be a problem there........
The girls had a blast bouncing on the suspension bridge high above the river. Heading back was a little tough going as the day was waning and so was our stamina :). Of course, we made it and arrived back at our cars around 4:15. It's always such a relief to use the restroom (all of us decided to wait on the facilities, although primitive) and to take off your shoes, to look at your blisters. All in all, a wonderful adventure with friends. The girls have such a wonderful time together and it's great to visit with friends, enjoying God's creation. We are so blessed to have friends like this and we love them very much! Thanks for spending the day with us, making memories. Love, Ellie~