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| Scene at the trailhead |
Melanie and I had thought about going up the Fragrance Lake trail again today, but I wasn't feeling all that strong and was not anxious to spend so much energy hiking up that particular trail. So Mel was amenable to changing our hike to one that is almost flat, the Hertz trail, instead. Although it's more than six miles round trip, the elevation gain and loss is negligible. It rained last night but the weather was supposed to be pretty nice today, and sure enough it was. We did have a little sprinkle here and there, but nothing even requiring a raincoat.
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| Salmonberry in bloom |
One thing that surprised me is that the salmonberries are coming into bloom, which I found to be rather amazing. Where did all this green and all these blossoms come from so quickly? Actually, tomorrow is the first day of April, so it's not really all that early, it's just seems that way; time is rocketing by.
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| Lake Whatcom |
In three miles or so, this flat trail crosses two streams that are graced by lovely covered bridges, and is quite well maintained. It gets lots of use by hikers, dog walkers, bikers, and runners. We saw a little of each today, but basically it was not very busy at all.
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| Fresh buds everywhere |
We happened to look out at the lake just as we saw a cormorant (we think anyway) dive down and disappear from view. We watched to see it surface with a fairly good-sized fish in its beak (bill?) and wrestle with it for a bit before getting the fish above its head, dropping it down into its mouth, and swallowing it whole!
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| Our trail |
As we walked, we had a few little sprinkles from passing clouds, then a bit of sunshine (as seen here), and the occasional passerby, but mostly we had this lovely place all to ourselves. After we got back to the car, Mel wanted to stop by a restaurant she visited yesterday, to see if by chance she had left her hat and gloves there. Sure enough, she did, and so we decided to stay and enjoy some lunch. It was just right, and by the time we headed back home, we were treated to full sunshine and warming temperatures. All in all, a lovely day!
:-)
It sounds like a great day on a beautiful trail. And a meal together…perfect.
ReplyDeleteA hike and lunch , a perfect day! We are back at home safe and sound:)
ReplyDeleteLevel really makes a difference hiking. Cool that you got to see the cormorant in full action. Good timing. Great day, good friend and a good meal. I think they call that a trifecta.
ReplyDeleteSometimes a less challenging hike can be much more satisfying.
ReplyDeleteI am very sorry that you weren't feeling strong, but more than happy you had a lovely day - a walk in pleasant company, v little rain and lunch as well. Take care dear friend.
ReplyDeleteAll in all a lovely day indeed!!
ReplyDeleteLove that first pic at the trailhead! I always make them bigger and it makes me feel like I'm actually there. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteIt is great to have such a kind and considerate friend! You had a good hike and a good lunch.
ReplyDeleteHurray for lovely days!
ReplyDeleteSounds like and looks like a really lovely day! :)
ReplyDeleteThat lake is magical.
ReplyDeleteShe suer seems like a good hiking buddy.
ReplyDeleteLove the little flower.
How do you have green and blossoms already?
ReplyDeleteI love the beautiful bright color of salmon berry blooms among the new greens.
ReplyDeleteThat looks like my kind of trail.
ReplyDeleteMelanie is such an excellent hiking buddy. But then I know you are a fabulous companion. I remember seeing those salmon berry flowers in Seattle. It’s such fun to see it again.
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