Three hardy hikers experienced Prairie Mountain at its very best: fresh snow draping the trees, blue sky, and zero other hikers. Ravens provided summit entertainment, and we plowed through the deep snow beyond down to the usual lunch spot in the bottom meadow before returning along Prairie Creek.
The crux of the day was the drive out of the city (extra-heavy school traffic, icy intersections, and a water main break detour). Highways 22 and 66 were empty, though, and the drive was beautiful in the morning with extra time to enjoy the views due to the unplowed road. The trip home wasn't quite as pleasant because of slush and muck spraying everywhere - the car is so dirty that you don't even want to touch it!
Snow-crusted trees
Almost at the summit
Synchronized ravens looking right...
... then left!
Participants: Cristina,Ingrid (coordinator) ,Annie. Thanks for being tough enough to come out on a cold morning!