Prairie Mtn - W.Ridge Loop Trail hike on 3-Apr-2026

It was just around freezing when we arrived in the parking lot, with a beautiful day clearly ahead of us. While there was a fair bit of new snow on the trail, most opted for icers.

Once we reached the summit, we found only light breezes. The new snow made the peaks to the west whiter than usual.

One of the summit ravens was friendlier than ever.

Four of our party elected to return back down the uptrack, while the other five continued with the circuit. We soon headed down the NW ridge with Teresa in the lead.

It seemed only two people had been ahead of us, but the footing was good in a deep snowpack.

At 2 PM, we finally stopped for lunch at the usual lunch logs.

The way out Prairie Creek was mostly mushy snow. Surprisingly there were few hikers in that drainage.

Thanks to all for joining me on such a great day out.

Participants: Bill, Gary, Susan, Aldis, John, Barb, Teresa, John, Jo