Hiking in the clouds

We actually went to both of these places

Only eight Trailblazers went out on a sunny day (to start, anyway), partly because most of this particular hike, to Burnout Point, is on old logging roads, such as you see in the background. Not as much fun or as scenic as trails in the woods. We knew that we would be making a loop, though, going up the logging roads but coming back via the Fragrance Lake trail.

Samish Bay in clouds and sunshine

At our first viewpoint, we could see that the clouds had begun to build, but still there was plenty of sunshine in parts of the area, but as we continued to hike upwards, we went right into those low-hanging clouds. They weren't putting out any of the "R" word, though, so we didn't mind too much.

Misty and beautiful

Until we reach Burnout Point, the hike is all uphill. A very good workout, but when we got to the top, there was no view, so we headed down the trail, making a loop, to Fragrance Lake for our lunch spot. On the way, we saw lots of this rather pretty fungi growing right on the road. No idea what it is.

It's coming right out of the dirt

One of the nice things about living here in the Pacific Northwest are all the interesting flora that proliferates because of the moisture. It's been raining more than usual (and that's saying something) for the past two months, so maybe that's one reason we keep seeing all these unusual fungi.

Me, Mikey, Kirk, Chris, Al, Rich, Peggy, Mel

At first, I asked someone to take a picture of the rest of us for my birthday memories, but I didn't really want anybody left out, so I managed to get this picture of all eight of us in a selfie. I will treasure this picture and have already put it on Facebook.

Fragrance Lake, our lunch spot

We got to the lake around noon, so we had a very nice lunch, even though it was a little cool in the breeze. We didn't spend a lot of time there, but when we headed back down via the Fragrance Lake trail rather than the logging road, we enjoyed much more pleasant views of abundant ferns and some old growth trees. I really love this particular trail. And then we were back at the cars, and it was still early in the day. Eight and a half miles and 2200 feet up and down, and my knees are still happy!

So now I am home, writing this post, and getting ready to enjoy a nice glass of wine before dinner. My wonderful partner asked me what else I'd like to have for my birthday, but frankly, I am content and happy, looking forward to the delightful food he's prepared for me. A great way to spend my special day.
:-)