Munson Creek is a wonderful shoulder season hike. It's accessible right from Highway 200 near Plains and Thompson Falls, so you don't have to worry about driving long muddy roads early in the year. If there's still snow, it's a nice ski or snowshoe. If it's thawing out, you can look for loads of early season wildflowers in the understory. Or, add this to your summer list for a cool dip in the shady pools along Munson Creek.