Fat Dog

December 5 -- Manning Park

Stats: 15 km / 727m gain / 1963m high / 4:30 hours MT (2:35 to top)

Anne was back in town for a visit so Ingrid organized a day out with a bunch of us friends. And what do you think we did? Head out into the great outdoors, of course.

Afterwards Irene and Simon invited us to their place where we warmed up in the Club House hot tub and stretched our strained muscles in the swimming pool. What a great way to unwind after a vigorous day!

This popular winter route had a well packed path. No need for breaking trail.

Two hours in and we finally got out of the shadow of the first mountain and into the sun. The snow crystals sparkled like diamonds.

A not so deep layer of snow but still early in the season.

Hozameens to Silverdaisy -- southwest

At our destination on the ridge leading to Blackwall Peak. The 4th (2100m) and Three Bros. Mountains (2190m).

west

Three of us had a hasty lunch here because Ingrid specified that she wanted to be back at the parking lot by 2:00pm. That did not happen.

Mt. Frosty to the right -- south.

Frosty & the Hozameens -- southwest.

Heading back, the Hozameens and Silverdaisy -- west.

northwest

Towards the end of the open slope we ran into the rest of our group: Irene H, Denise D, Anne O'L, Ingrid F, Brigitte G, Elizabeth B & me.

north

On the return journey, this stretch was now in the sun, backlighting the landscape.

Nature's art.

We were back at the parking lot by 4:00pm, just before darkness descended.

While we were soaking in the hot tub, Simon came with his pencil and notepad to take our order for pizza and beer. What service!

Then we ate it at their house. Thanks so much for the hospitality Irene & Simon!