We had a very pleasant hike to Goat Lake from Red Rock Canyon, despite the heat. It got up to the low 30's, but there was a cool, light wind all day which was a big help as the shade provided by trees in the past is gone now, as those trees were burnt in the fire a few years ago. We went at an easy pace, with a few regrouping stops.

There were lots of flowers along the trail, the most showy being large bunches of Wild Bergamot and Pearly Everlasting.

Wild Bergamot along trail

Pearly Everlasting

Many butterflies were enjoying the flowers as well!


Butterflies on Sulphur Buckwheat

The trail was dry and in good condition for the most part, but there were some eroded areas on the steep hillside that required some caution.

We enjoyed several waterfall views on the ascent

Waterfall near Goat Lake

. We had a leisurely lunch with time for wading or swimming in pretty Goat Lake.


Goat Lake

Refreshing swim

. There were lots of small trout close to the lakeshore


Trout in Goat Lake

Reluctantly we left the lake to return before the maximum heat of the day and were rewarded with clear views down the valley to the mountains beyond on our descent.

View on return

Thanks to a great group for joining me on this hike: Christine,Bill,Barbara,Tom,Susan,Photini,Aldis,Bill,Ron,including new member Emily, on her first Ramblers' hike, from Barb (c,s,p). Thanks to Bill for some of the pictures and, as always, helping with flower identification.