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| Chris with Luna and Melanie |
Today, three of us (with another sweet dog, Luna) met at the Upper Trailhead parking lot to take a trip to Lizard Lake and return via the Alternate Incline Trail. Cool and sunny, the day was pretty darn perfect, as we started up to the lake via the regular trail from the parking lot. I got to lead, since I am the slowest of us, so that I could set the pace. I sort of like the feeling of being in the lead, where Al always used to be when we could all hike together. Someday, maybe, that will happen again.
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| On our way to the lake |
We got to the junction where we would head towards the lake on the British Army Trail. The deep forest kept us cool while the sun shined overhead. It was so nice to stay cool on our way up. We gained a fair amount of elevation to this spot, and then it was pretty much level.
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| At the lake, where we usually have lunch |
It was still early when we reached Lizard Lake, but we decided to take a nice long break in the stillness and have an early lunch. I have never been here this late in the season, because we would normally be hiking in the Mt. Baker Wilderness, but because of the pandemic, we are taking trips closer to home.
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| Lizard Lake |
You can see from this picture of the lake and reflection that it was very still and quite lovely. I enjoyed staying here and reminisced about all the times I've been here in the rain, snow, and cold. This was way better and we lingered for awhile.
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| Alternate Incline Trail |
Melanie and Chris wanted to return via this trail, since the usual way back is a bit longer, and Mel said this is one of her favorite trails. I like it just fine, and it is fairly steep in places, but we were traveling downhill so it wasn't too hard on me. The trail comes out on a service road, meaning that we needed to walk in the sun (mostly) as we made our way back to the parking lot.
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| Mt. Baker from the road |
One of the reasons I think Melanie likes to go this way is the gorgeous view you get of Mt. Baker from the road. We covered around six miles and more than 2,000 feet up and down on our beautiful hike today. And I'm not even tired! We skipped going to North Butte, which would have added another mile or so, but it wasn't necessary for us to enjoy the day. Next week we might try something a bit more challenging. A little at a time, that's my motto!
:-)
It looks, and sounds, incredible. I am so glad that you are able to experience (and share) this beauty. Many thanks.
ReplyDeleteAah, bee balm for the weary soul.
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorite hikes you share Lizard Lake, in all it's glory.
Happy to know you enjoyed yourselves today :)
Hugs,
~Jo
six miles and you are not tired I think you are all back in shape now ! :)
ReplyDeleteThis weather we are having is just perfect, sunny and mildly warm, with coolness at night. Your hike sounds perfect.
ReplyDeleteI saw a photo earlier this week of Mt. Baker from the Canadian side of the border. It sure dominates the area.
ReplyDeleteYour hike sounds perfect!
Beautiful area to hike in. Perfect weather makes it even better.
ReplyDelete6 miles! Hats off to you!
ReplyDeleteyep, a little bit at a time...good motto. Pretty hiking country.
ReplyDeleteI have a dim recollection of yu asking about what cell phone we used. It's an oldie, just an iPhone6, nothing fancy at all.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great day. Friends, great scenery, cool day, painless exercise and a dog fix. What more to ask for? So glad it is getting easier for you.
ReplyDeleteNice to walk in the shade under the trees. But, gulp, covering 2000 feet elevation takes a bit of effort!
ReplyDeleteThe lake is quite a beauty.
ReplyDeleteWhat gorgeous views! Lovely hike with lovely friends.
ReplyDeleteThat is sweet of them to let you take the lead. Looks like a great hike and a beautiful day. :)
ReplyDeleteGlad they finally elevated you to the position of leader, as you deserve!
ReplyDeleteI think six miles is a wonderful achievement, up or downhill. You are keeping very fit DJan and all your walking buddies too.
ReplyDelete