tree hit by lightening
map from Frank
Although 10 of us met at Sutton Way, we had
only 9 by the time decisions were made. Seems everyone wanted to go to Grouse Ridge and was up for a loooooong day except Mary Cahier (who we were very glad to see after a prolonged absence.). So 2 cars wended their way up the punishing 5.75 miles of dirt road. Jo and Akiko (just recovering from the flu and ear infection) walked out to Glacier Lake for a very leisurely stay and wait for the rest of us. Frank and Ellen, Maureen, Tiana, Tammy, John and Elly detoured up Sand Ridge, enjoyed the stupendous view from the mile hike on top of the ridge, and then followed the ducks to the Five Lakes Basin area. After lunch at the lowest lake, we followed the ducks up the valley (and over the boulders) up to Glacier Lake. The entire hike (9.5 miles) was full of vistas, granite and even some fall color. I think the red plant was a member of the heath family.
Next week we talked about starting a hike to Sierra Buttes at 8 instead of 8:30, due to the long car trip. This hike will possibly consist of 2 groups: one to start at Packer Lake (see hike on 8/27/09) which is somewhat over 7 miles to the open stairway to the top and the fire lookout. The other hike will start from a bit further up the same road to the PCT - about 4 miles. It is helpful if everyone decides beforehand which hike they want to do so we can fill the cars accordingly. Both groups might want to partake in the ice cream at the bottom of the road.
There may be another hike that leaves at 8:30 which won't take the whole day. If anyone wants to lead such a hike, I will post it here.
Just to be clear about next week, all those who want to climb the Sierra Buttes need to be at the meeting place at 8:00. There will be an easier and a harder version of the Sierra Buttes hike (if we have enough people for both), but both groups need to leave at 8:00 because of the long drive (2 hours).
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