Two cars/eight hikers drove the long trek on the bouncy dirt road to Grouse Ridge. A few fishermen and hunters advised us that the high trail is mosquito free but not the low one. We hiked up the beautiful Sand Ridge moraine, paid Frank's geo cache a visit and glorified in the amazing views that ridge provides of the Black Buttes and the Sierra Buttes. Lassen was visible as well. After descending a while we found the "jumping off place" for the ducked route to Five Lakes Basin. Poorly defined trails were in abundance and our designated photographer managed to get separated on one of the wrong ones. Luckily we called and retraced until we found her. Reminds me that we SHOULD be carrying loud whistles. We descended further until we reached a lovely lake suitable for lunch and swimming.
Later we ascended some rocks for a different view and Akiko found some epidote on a piece of granite, a green crystal-laden face. On the way to Glacier Lake we took a "shortcut" up to the route we wanted. It was steep and difficult but this intrepid group was up to it. We rested and cooled our faces in Glacier Lake before the long trek (considering the late time) back down and then UP to the cars. Well, the hunters were right. The mosquitoes honed in on the group, trying mightily for a blood meal. Swatting and hiking fast, no one dared stop for a pee. We did not rid ourselves of them until we got above the trees at the cars.
The drive down the Grouse Ridge road was spectacular as the sun was setting orangy red, the mountains were lavender and the green trees still had some color. Their needles actually picked up some direct sunlight that made them sparkle.
Next week there were two suggestions but I think PCT to Benson Hut won out. Maybe we could save Mt. Lola until the following week. It is 6 miles out to Benson Hut, so a 12 mile hike. The trail is spectacular, following the crest and offering wonderful views in all directions. Since it is a well-built trail, we can make good time and will meet at the regular 8:30 time. Hikers would be advised to carry about 50 ounces of water on these trips and carry a flashlight and an extra jacket. The season is getting later. If the weather closes in next week, we will go to Plan B, to be determined.
Later we ascended some rocks for a different view and Akiko found some epidote on a piece of granite, a green crystal-laden face. On the way to Glacier Lake we took a "shortcut" up to the route we wanted. It was steep and difficult but this intrepid group was up to it. We rested and cooled our faces in Glacier Lake before the long trek (considering the late time) back down and then UP to the cars. Well, the hunters were right. The mosquitoes honed in on the group, trying mightily for a blood meal. Swatting and hiking fast, no one dared stop for a pee. We did not rid ourselves of them until we got above the trees at the cars. 
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