We had a cool start but the wind was light and we quickly warmed up as we climbed Long Prairie Ridge. The sun was warm and layers soon started to come off.

Along Long Prairie Ridge

An indication the winter's not here yet!

By the time we hit Death Valley trail the wind had picked up. It was on this trail that we encountered our first other hikers (a young couple) as well as 3 on horseback. One of the horses saw the group as an opportunity to stop for attention.

The horse that wanted attention

We saw 2 other hikers in the campground and that was the end of other people for the day. Although it was windy in the Sandy McNabb hills the sun and the climbing kept us warm. We found a fairly sheltered spot for lunch at the far end of the last hill.

Group at our lunch spot

On the return we took the lower trail back through the meadows and then joined the ski trails for the last stretch to the road and the cars.

The long stretch we've had without rain meant we encountered no mud all day!

Thanks to a great group for a great thanksgiving hike.

Participants: Ron,Madeleine,Barbara,Brian,Carmie,Francisco,Linda,Robert,Mohsen,Peter,Brenda c/s/p,David (photos),Margo,Jo.

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