Thursday, December 1, 2016

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.
:-)

21 comments:

  1. A very, very happy birthday to you dearheart. Fragrance Lake is such a delightful name, and I loved the painfree trek you took us on today.

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  2. Never thought about it, but yeah, with my mold allergies, I bet I wouldn't do too well there.

    Glad you had a wonderful time! Again, happy birthday!

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  3. Happy birthday, Jan. It looked like a great birthday hike. Your pictures a wonderful!

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  4. Hi DJan, Loved your comment about the December Fortune card on my blog! And Happy Birthday! Hope you've had a great day!

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  5. Happy B-day! What a great way to spend your special day. Love the selfie with your friends.

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  6. I know that these hikes are great but you always make them sound greater.

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  7. hey, happy birthday! Have a great and wonderful day.

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  8. So glad you had a rain free hike on your birthday!

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  9. What a wonderful way to celebrate your birthday! Outdoor activity, good friends, good food, and love in your life. Wishing you all the best DJan!

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  10. Happy birthday, dJan!
    Aloha from Hawaii.

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  11. Happy Birthday! Another great hike! I am glad you got to hike on your special day! :) Where were the cupcakes> I bet that hiker has retired:(

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  12. With all that rain the fungi are no surprise--LOL!
    Happy birthday and safe travels! :)

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  13. Well now....happy belated birthday wishes from me here in windy Texas! Hope your special meal was delightful. I'm sure it was.

    Love the name of the lake area...Fragrance Lake Trail. Cool. And oh so beautiful it is. Love the misty photo also. That is so pretty. And tranquil looking. The selfie is awesome.

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    1. ps...I read your previous post to play catchup and the soon to be trip to Florida sounds like it's gonna be a great time. Have some safe travels, and I hope you'll still post while there, showing us what you're up to during that time.

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  14. Wishing you a Happy belated Birthday dear DJan, it looks like you had a grand one !
    The view from the lake is breathtaking....magical, what a perfect spot to sit down and ponder, whilst eating lunch.
    Safe travels to Florida, I can't wait to see what you'll be getting up to.
    Hugs,
    Jo

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  15. Nice selfie to get everyone in. Happy Birthday gal. How nice to share a pleasant hike with your friends but also to have Smart Guy to spoil you.

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  16. Happy Birthday DJan! It's wonderful to feel content and satisfied. I like the photos from your hike.

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  17. You have a beautiful outlook.. always. I'm glad you had a lovely birthday. May the year continue to follow suit.

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  18. What a wonderful day to spend your Birthday. Happiness my friend. I love the group shot and your lunch spot.

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