April 5 - 11km / 610m gain / 890m high
I opted for a local hike since it was Easter Monday and the highways would be very busy. Usually we do this one on a not-so-nice day just to get out and play. So this was a real treat, having clear sunny skies with far-reaching views of familiar peaks. Spring was definately in the air.
Half of our group of 15 walked the .7 km to the trailhead. There were 4 rough spots on the small stretch of road, better suited for a 4WD. With Covid, carpooling was not the preferred way to go.
At the first viewpoint overlooking Sumas Mt & prairie with the Golden Ears range to the right.
Past the pond to the summit ridge, the trail was mostly icy.
A fairy tale forest by the pond.
At the lake.
Just past the bridge is the first of two rope sections.
This expansive viewpoint is just before the summit, to the right. Mission in the distance -- northwest.
Sumas Mt and to the right the Vedder Canal -- north.
Robie Reid Mt in Golden Ears Provincial Park -- north.
Guess who we ran into at the summit? Actually he literally ran into us. Gary Robbins is somewhat of a celebrity in our hiking community. If you haven't seen his YouTube video yet called "The Big Chill" then you must. He ran 176 km from Chilliwack Lake, across 8 mountain peaks to Cultus Lake in 37.5 hours!!!
Mt. Baker -- south.
A few hikers missing from this shot. For 3 people in our group it was their first time out with our club and on this trail.
International Ridge above Cultus Lake.
Heading back down, this was the last viewpoint on the ridge.
The Cheam Range.
Back at the bridge and the rope. A few were waiting to congregate at the bottom. Five of our group had carried on and walked to our house, therefore doing a crossover.
A tree tunnel.
Approaching the pond.
The lower part of Vedder Mt. on the Cultus Lake side is a huge playground for motorbikes and ATVs. But this higher trail is off bounds to them.
Spectacular photographs, as always, Jocelyn. Thanks for sharing them. I have been looking forward to your post after not being able to join you.