#162: M*A*S*H Hike

M*A*S*H Hike, we got off on the wrong foot. The trouble started when Brad pulled up to the guard station and they said it would be a $12 parking fee plus an optional $2 for a map. That extra $2 annoyed Brad, and he said no to the map. We parked, starting walking along the main road, and kept going, thinking we'd see a sign for the M*A*S*H trail head or a sign for Crags Road. We saw neither, and walked right past the trail head (which is labeled Backcountry Trails, btw). That took us on a lovely 30 minute detour. At least we got to see this cool tree.


After that, we turned onto the Backcountry Trails (which is so obvious and crowded that we felt really dumb missing it) and walked along a fire road for about an hour. We followed the signs indicating "M*A*S*H Hike" and finally reached a bridge.


Crossing this bridge, we encountered two rocky paths. Take the one on the right until you get to the clearing with signs indicating the M*A*S*H set.

This hike took us about 2 hours (more if you count our detour :P). There's limited shade, so bring a hat and sunscreen. It was pretty crowded, but once we got past the bridge, we didn't see as many people. There are also porta potties along this hike.

porta potties everywhere

Brad thought that the first part of the hike was boring. What he meant was that walking along a fire road isn't very challenging for your mind, whereas having to think about where your next step would be on a rocky path is more stimulating. We agreed that we'd try to stay away from fire road hikes in the future.

We didn't get to see the lake or the dam, but I hear that's worth checking out since it's just a short detour from the main path. Check out the link below for more info.

M*A*S*H Hike

this is the sign to follow! it's across the street from the third parking lot. follow the crowds.
the restrooms/parking lot that is right across the street from the Backcountry Trails sign

most of the hike is sunny and flat like this
5% of the hike is shady like this


for some of the hike, you are going along this river
things turn rocky after the bridge

anything is possible when your man smells like Old Spice

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