Carthew Summit Trail hike on 22-Jul-2026
On a promising morning under mostly blue skies at Cameron Lake, we headed up on an out and back to Carthew Summit as fire smoke gradually encroached. This was a mixed blessing as it kept temperatures somewhat cooler on the often sun-baked long traverse above our first stop at Summit Lake, but made for subdued views and photography. After a leisurely lunch where some napped, the return featured another break at the lake, and continued appreciation of the amazing amount and variety of wildflowers along the way. As always- thanks everyone for joining us!
Starting out along Cameron Lake under blue(ish) skies.
Profuse flowers in what was formerly dense forest.
Shady switchbacks above Cameron Lake.
The recovery from the 2017 fire is interesting to observe.
Abundant beargrass in the vicinity of Summit Lake
Elevenses at Summit Lake.
Other than occasional horseflies, the only insects of note were the swarms of butterflies
Onwards to the summit.
Changing but still abundant flora as the trail transitioned onto red rock.
Lunch with lake views, to the north of the summit.
I think that this is Alpine Starwort (flower people?)
Flowers and lakes from above our lunch spot on the lower ridge leading to Mount Carthew
Parting image of Summit Lake
More beargrass!
Monkeyflower paradise below the lake on the return.
Participants: Arnold, Nancy, Aldis, Jeannette, Barb, Joanne, Steve, Tracy