February 22, 2026
~ submitted by Matthew Lettington
It seems challenging to get people out on hikes these days! As part of our ongoing effort to improve the family’s general fitness for an upcoming summer backpacking trip, I posted a trip to Mount Tzouhalem on the schedule. While the weather forecast was uncertain, perhaps the kids’ presence deterred some people.
Despite the lack of outside participants, my kids and I had a great day. We began our hike at the Genoa Bay Marina around 9:30 AM, walking through the light mist to the lower viewpoint. This brief respite lifted our spirits, but we persevered and climbed the wet slopes to the upper viewpoint.
By the time we reached the upper viewpoint, the clouds began to break, revealing bright patches of sun in various places within the mist. The mist had cleared, and we were right on the edge of a pressure system. To the east, Dark grey clouds and rain filled the sky; while to the west, white fluffy clouds in the horizon displayed bright patches of blue and blazing sunshine. We spent the rest of the day high on the ridge, stopping for a delightful snack at a scenic viewpoint during our lunch break.
I must admit, the return trip was a bit too warm for all the layers we had worn in the morning. However, we made it back to the car in good time and ended the day with a fish and chips at the local café.