Ten Ramblers met at the Pigeon Mtn trailhead ready to start at 9am. With the wind and temperature a few degrees below zero it was chilly, but actually about right for the climb up this popular ridge. Rain the previous day rendered much of the trail quite icy, and most of the group donned micro-spikes before too long. We maintained a steady pace with regroup stops at the many junctions. There were an estimated 20 others on the trail throughout the day including a large group originally from Romania.
The conversations amongst the group were diverse and although much appreciated, failed to solve too many of the world problems.
On the way, up we all climbed the usual rock step, which was a bit tricky due to the snow cover. The group reached the high point just before noon, but chose to turn back to find a more sheltered place to have lunch. The views of the front ranges were great.
On the way down we decided to avoid the rock step and instead descended the alternative route around the side of the rock band, but found it to be fairly steep and very slippery in places. The micro-spikes were invaluable here and in many other parts of the trail. It is a toss-up between the actual rock step and the side hill through the trees as to which is the safer and/or easier route.
As expected there was not a lot of wildlife and no flowers or lichens, but on the way down a very large flock of birds (estimated 200 birds) were circling around. They were too far away to identify (but maybe rosy-finches?)
Participants: Kim, David, Jim, Damian, Janice, Clifton, Sonja, Teresa, Barbara, Evan.