We parked on the roadside at the winter gate. The campsite is being refurbished and that road is gated off. As well, there was yellow and red tape strung along the trees on the south side of the hwy for a very long distance in both directions. I later later learned that part of the area was closed due to a bear feeding on a cow carcase. But that was after we'd done our hike.

We set off under cloudy skies along the Death Valley trail which is in very good condition, dry.

After about 1 1/2 hours we came to the new connector, built a year ago and now signed. This cuts off at least 1 km and brought us to the edge of the trees on Windy Point trail by 11:30.

We opted for lunch here as we still had some views. By noon we were on the way again with many flowers to admire.

One of the flowers we had trouble identifying was the silver leaved scorpionweed, growing next to a clump of the more common purple flowered ones. Up the last hill to the top of Foran Grade ridge with a tea break at the viewpoint.

The sun came out and we spent much time enjoying the great views, glad that we'd done the trip counter clockwise as we finally got the best weather with the best views.

Just before leaving the ridge, June spotted a young skunk next to the trail. No problem as it scurried away through the grass. Then down to the road and return the last km on pavement thanks to the blocked off trail on the south side.

Thanks to Janet, Jennifer, June, Maria, Kay, Dusan and Sandy for their delightful company. C/s/p Dorothy-Ann