All of us were anxious to go hiking today considering the rainy forecast for the next few days. We set out and our first decision was to decide whether to take the steep way or the easier, longer way to the lower peak. The consensus was to take the the easier 18.5 km route. The group hiked together until we got above treeline. The flowers were plentiful but not quite the same as in previous years so some continued while a few slowed down for photography. On the way up we met a couple of Ramblers including our Trips Director so we stopped for conversation. Then we continued to the peak where we stopped for lunch. Another Rambler arrived and took our photo.

Lunch time on the Lower Peak

After lunch we headed to the high peak. Of course being Ramblers all had to continue a few meters further to the end of the ridge.

Group at the higher peak

The weather continued to get warmer until it was almost a little hot in the meadows on the way down. We had a lazy stop to enjoy the sun.

Group on the way down by Jennifer

Some people continued to study the flowers. All colours were apparent including some townsendias. Are these two larkspurs the same?

Larkspur 1 by Bill

Larkspur 2 by Bill

Bill is doing some research.

Many of us missed the deer but Bill got a photo.

Deer by Bill

All of us saw the black bear on the way out (no photo). We had a short standoff. He obviously wanted to go up and we wanted to go down. After thinking about it for awhile he blinked first and headed into the bush.

It was a perfect day for the hike.

Thanks to all the participants

Participants: Bill, David, Susan, Aldis /trip co-ordinator/, Janice, Jane, Cathy, Jenny, Krystyna, Colleen, Kate, Cheryl, John