May 14, 2012
By Gunda M
Lunch in the sun
It was to be a great day, almost mid-summer like temperatures in the 70’s . The trailhead, even though heralded by other hikers earlier as not approchable due to ice was free and clear. Nine M.G.’s donned the usual equipment, i.e. snow shoes and micro spikes, as well as shorts and sun screen, expecting snow and ice in the higher elevations. The sun felt great and the shade in the trees was welcomed on the steeper sections.
The view was clear with the mountains begging to get closer! Neil getting the view of the Buckhorns.
The snow and ice started in earnest at about 4,000’ and the going was getting rough!! And then again, like in prior years we lost the trail!!
Most of us decided to follow the crest line after bush whacking through fallen trees, snow banks and treacherous tree wells. One of us didn’t navigate the icy slope and slid down into the trees, scraping elbows and kneew (just as he had done last year – same spot – same tree- same knee!!!). Others did similar – the trail of the fallen and bloody goats!!!
Jean in the tree well Karen proved First Aid while Jim tended to his own.
According to our knowledgable tracker we loggeg about 5 miles. Back at the car we mutually agreed that this was the last snow anyone wanted to see, until next year. We will hang up the snow shoes!! Summer, we are ready to hike in wild flowers and green meadows!! Here we come!
Happy Hiking!
Gunda
Photo Credits:
Neil, Jim, Gunda
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- Little Quil Trail sign
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- Getting ready
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- Getting ready
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- Getting ready
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- Jack
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- Easy going
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- Taking in the sights
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- Buckhorn
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- Buckhorns
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- The view west
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- Beautiful day for views
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- Typical Dirty Face
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- Another snow field
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- Hard going
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- Snow in the way
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- Jeanne in the tree
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- First aid
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- Jim tending his own
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- Gray Wolf
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- Lunch in the sun
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- Lunch time
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- Happy hikers!
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- Summit not reached
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- Dirty Face Townsend
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