Rawson Lake Trail was an excellent choice for a hike on a day when 30-degree temperature was predicted. Under cloudy skies and cool temperatures with lots of shade by the trees along the trail, eight hikers including the coordinator started a leisurely hike on this well maintained trail. In addition to many lively and interesting conversations, we enjoyed the waterfall as it tumbled with great power into Sarrail Creek and took time to identify the many flowers which were still in bloom. Amongst these were the Willow Herb, Rhododendrons, Azalias, Saxifrage, clusters of Moss Campions, Scorpion Weed and the ever present Indian Paintbrush.

After negotiating the rocky gravel at the far end of the lake, the group crossed the creek and made a lunch stop in full view of the beautiful lake and the many climbers who were either ascending the Col above or scrambling up the Scree to view more closely the snowy slopes above. After lunch, some of our group wandered around for a closer look at the carpet of yellow Columbines. They were also rewarded with a first time view of a “Mutation Columbine” of yellow and orange colour.

On our return trip, we passed many hikers who were ascending in the footsteps of our earlier hike. With animated conversations, we descended to the parking lot and to warmer temperatures after another most enjoyable hike in the mountains. On our return, we looked for but did not see the young moose which was sighted on our drive to Rawson Lake.

Thanks to a great group which included Brian, Shirley, Anne, Dorothy-Ann, June, Robert, Linda and our coordinator, Alastair.