It was a chilly start to our hike, about -15 at Sibbald Lake parking, but the lack of wind and bright sunshine promised improvements. The trail had about 2 inches of fresh snow, tracked by only a few people and deer before us.

Delayering stop in the sun

. Spikes weren't needed as there was very little ice.

We were surprised not to see more animal tracks in the fresh snow - just some deer, squirrels and small rodents.

The clear skies and snow-covered mountains made for great views along the later stages of the trail and our lunch stop at the top of Eagle Hill.

Most of group at Eagle Hill viewpoint

The small pines had lovely long intricately shaped icicles hanging from them, making them look like Christmas trees.


Icicles up close

Chistmas tree with icicles

We met 3 other Ramblers on a private trip on Grouse Ridge at the top, so had the opportunity to visit with them before we all headed back down around 12:30 after a leisurely lunch in the sun. The temperature fluctuated throughout the hike back, sometimes several degrees above zero (in the shade) to about -2 when we reached the parking lot.

Thanks to Participants: David,Damian,Douglas,Celine,Teresa,Jo,Deborah,Keith,Kate and {-1 carrie booth} from Barb for a very pleasant winter hike. Special thanks to Teresa and Keith for the pictures.

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