The next area to pull off is Box Canyon, which is part of the headwaters of the Cowlitz River, which flows south west into the Columbia, and is the most northerly stream to do so on the west side of the Cascade Range. There is a walking trail through the forest, and the following scenes were all from that trail.
There are quite a few fallen trees in the forest adjacent to the trail. This is not surprising, as winds increase near mountains. It may also be a leagacy of the harsh winter we had a couple of years ago. However, it is a natural way of life for forests.
Autumnal colourings are starting to show. But the change in season is rather slow here, which prevents the dramatic changes seen in New England.
The Box Canyon and Cowlitz River. The water has cut quite deeply into the rock, as can be judged from the size of the trees. The water is very white, indicating a high silt load, as more of the mountain is carried away.
Looking SSE towards Mt. Adams, just visible above the far ridge.
It was a day without wind, allowing nice reflections on the lake.
The mountain again, with a bit more autumnal colour.
Tatoosh Wilderness
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