Christmas Day weather is generally hit or miss, especially on BI with the frequent rain. I was expecting snow for Christmas after the move to Switzerland but we had far more rain, and far less snow, than Bainbridge this year. I enjoy a good muddy ride and today was no exception.

I was unprepared for how many forest service roads were riding distance from the house. I knew of the big mountains in the south but the farms and woods closer to Zürich were unexpected. The beautiful fall colors on a cool, quiet day made for the most enjoyable ride.

With the changing fall colors, I wanted to return to Royal Basin to take in the scene. Last time we ran as much as we hiked but this time I went alone and spent a significant amount of time photographing the colors and the abundant small waterfalls and rushing creeks.

I finally had time and cooperative weather to ride this classic PNW loop through the mountains. The Seattle Randonneurs have a 200K brevet route but since I was riding on my own I decided to shorted it by ~30 miles and avoid some of the less scenic city riding.

Enjoyable hike in perfect fall conditions. Started hiking around 10am with air temperature just above freezing so dress appropriately. The trail is in good condition but lacks any signage so be sure to follow the directions, particularly bearing to the right at the T. Arrived at the ridge around noon.