Mt McDougall (SE peak) Off-Trail Hike on 6-Jul-2010

was taken last week and shows the drainage we hiked through to get to Mount McDougall. Although the trail needs some maintenance work it is still a worthwhile and beautiful area to walk through. Dozens of flowers are now in prime condition.

There was a strong feeling in the group that the amount of loose rubble on the ascent to the summit should raise the OT5 rating to a SC5. This sentiment was even stronger on the descent.

The view from the summit is spectacular and boasts several peaks that are popular scrambles for Ramblers.

After about 50 minutes on the summit there was some concern about the deteriorating weather so we descended to a lower elevation for another rest stop.

We "older folks" were delighted to have a young guest on the trip today and hope that Heather will join us again in the not too distant future. Welcome Heather.

Thanks to Janette, Peter, Laszlo, Heather, Philip, Rosanne & Nancy for joining me for another great day in the mountains ........Arnold (C/S/P)