3 Ladies

Because of heat and a time commitment, six hikers from the 8 o'clock group hiked fewer miles and less elevation gain than usual. We opted to hike the 3 Lady Lakes from Boreal.  Although swimming was a possibility, a cool wind blew off Lake Flora which dampened our enthusiasm. However there were quite a few dogs around and an increasing number of people as well. 

PCT to Anderson

Seven of us headed south on the spectacular PCT from route 40. The weather had cooled down and the going was easy enough. The smoke from all the fires only created a thin haze.   Intermittent summer storms helped keep down the dust and kept the plants alive with some still blooming wild flowers. Fireweed, Gentians, Sulphur and Lobb's Buckwheat, Scarlet Fritillary, Mule's 

Ears still had some blooms at this late date. While most of the group turned after eating on the trail below Benson Hut, two went on to the saddle on the ridge between Anderson and 

Tinker's. The trail remains beautifully maintained, especially the talus crossings on the slopes of Mt. Anderson.  The area around the back of the mountain is even more spectacular in its rock outcrop pings and vegetation. Most of the group hiked about 12.25 miles and the other two hiked about 14.29.  Elevation gain was  about 2500 feet. A long, but satisfying day. 

Approaching Mt. Anderson. benson Hut is hidden in the trees to the left of the talus. 

Mt. Anderson from the other side

Mt. Anderson from back. 

Tinker's Knob from the ridge to its north