Campbell Lake - July 12, 2018

Although we have lived on Fidalgo Island for over 12 years this was our first time on the Lake. We've always enjoyed driving by on Campbell Lake Road and have often said it would be fun to explore the lake with the boats but we just never got around to it until yesterday. We weren't disappointed.

 The iconic Mt. Erie provided a prominent background to the north.

 The southwest corner of the lake was not developed because it is part of the Deception Pass State Park. It has a wild feel.

 We paddles as close as e could to Naked Man Valley but we never saw him, or anyone else for that matter.

Sauk Mountain - July 11, 2018

It was a bit early for the maximum flower display but the visibility was great for playing "Name that Peak". 

 Glacier Peak dominated the southern horizon.

 Kay and I eschewed crossing the steep snowfield to get to the summit and scrambled to the nearer Ridge top instead. I'm not getting any younger.

View North to the Picketts

Kay, below me on the descent

Colchuck Lake, July 7, 2018

It was great being able to get out with both Lynnelle and Emily and to be able to do it in such a beautiful place. Also to do it in perfect weather made it a memorable day.

 There are two picturesque crossings of Mountaineer Creek.

 Dragontail and Colchuck Creek.

Aasgard Pass

Colchuck Col

Heybrook Ridge/ Barclay Lake - June 27, 2018

We decided to check out the new Heybrook Ridge Trail. It was well constructed and led to an impressive view across the Skykomish Valley to Mt Index, Bridal Veil Falls, and Mt Persis. It was a short hike so we added a trip to Barclay Lake for giggles. I hadn't been on that trail in nearly 30 years so it seemed new.

Baring Mountain is on the far left in this panorama. Seeing it caused us to think of Barclay Lake for an add on.

 Baring Mountain is the dominant feature on the Barclay Lake Hike.

Desolation Peak - June 13, 2018

After two very pleasant days hiking to Lightning Creek Camp, day three, the day we planned to ascend Desolation Peak, proved to be the poorest weather wise. There were low clouds, wind and sporadic showers all day with just enough breaks to keep us hopeful and moving upward. There was even a momentary sun break at Desolation Camp where we ate our lunch. So we pushed on for the last mile to the summit. With a half mile to go and in sight of the lookout the trail was lost in snow. At that point the clouds, fog, and rain enveloped us eliminating our visual reference point. We waited some time for a break but  conditions just deteriorated. With over six miles of hiking ahead of us to return to camp we reluctantly decided to turn around. 

Although the view were limited this proved to be a nice flower hike.

The lookout was visible behind Brian and Dennis just a moment before this picture was taken

Breaking through the clouds on the descent

Back at Lightning Camp, Dennis was done for the day.