Mount Jupiter Hike

For a few years I've tried hike up Mount Jupiter in the Eastern Olympics with Matt. We got our chance this summer, but during the start of a record heat wave. As a 14 mile hike with 3900' elevation gain it was already tough, but 80-90 degree weather made things brutal. Fortunately the first half of the hike was in a cool rhododendron laden forest, but too soon the trail opened up to the sun and became steeper. As we were hiking along a ridge there were a few false summits, which troubled my spirits. Eventually we made it to the top and were greeted by great views of The Brothers, Mount Constance, Hood Canal and even a hazy Seattle in the distance. The hike back was tougher than expected due to the increasing heat. For the first time ever on a hike I ran out of water and the ultra heated water waiting me in the car was of no relief. Though it was a tough hike I highly recommend it, just don't do it during at the start of a heat wave.