Green Mtn loop via Spaulding Point Off-Trail hike on 24-Sep-2024

A somewhat cloudy start made for pleasant hiking temperature as we departed Indian Oils. First stop was Dyson Falls for a break :

rest stop at Dyson Falls

easy crossing of Dyson Creek

As we went along there were lots of mushrooms erupting from the soil, here are a few:

small red mushroom: Amanita muscaria?

possible Western Giant Puffball (Calvatia booniana)

puffballs ready to release spores

After taking the turnoff from the road and ascending the drainage, we ascended the steep grassy slope accompanied by a strong wind (but warm!) up to Spaulding Point. Then it was meandering through the pine/spruce forest to the high point for lunch. Views to the southeast were clear and there were interesting lenticular cloud formations:

Lenticular clouds from Green Mtn summit

Continuing west to the meadows revealed more very clear views of the Rockies to the west- time for a group photo by Cheryl:

Mountain panorama from west end of Green Mtn: Janice, Barbara, Ron and Laura

Then it was down into the forest and following intermittent good trails, sketchy animal trails and a bit of bushwhacking back to the road. After a leisurely break in the sun back at Dyson Creek it was back to the cars through meadow and forest:

some aspens are in fall colour

Thanks to the group for making it a fun day in the foothills with the usual great conversations.

Participants: Ron C/S/P, Barbara, Janice, Cheryl (photos), Laura

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