Seven Ramblers showed up despite the dire forecast for the mountains, but the weather in the foothills was quite nice and we had a great winter solstice hike on the Lesueur Creek Ridge.

(For anybody who hasn't noticed, the sunsets are getting later by a few seconds a day now, but the sunrises are still later every morning. The result is that each day is longer overall by seconds, but the solstice period is not quite finished yet. By New Year's Day the day will be lengthening at both ends, which is what makes it the New Year. And a Happy New Year to all!) It was mild and calm at the trailhead, with just a little snow here and there, and no need for traction devices. We headed straight up to the ridge top, where we got great views before retreating to the woods for lunch, as the wind picked up right on cue at noon.

Peter on the edge of the Lesueur Creek Ridge

Hikers ascend snow-free Lesueur Creek Ridge

The return loop at the base of the ridge provided warm sunshine (7C) and less wind.

Group at the base of Lesueur Creek Ridge

It got so warm, in fact, that the trail was getting rather muddy. We were back to the cars at 3, having seen nobody else all day.

Participants: Ursula,Francisco,Mohsen,Peter,Bob,Glenda, and Carl, coordinator and scribe.

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