Seven hikers who had expected rain got fog instead...lots of fog. Although the shroud seemed to be lifting as we entered the spacious parking area, giving us a brief look up at Songer Butte (2694'), a second wave of the grey stuff covered that mound for this day. Still we were happy to learn that we had another new hike to explore right in Ashland's backyard.

A scouting party of three went out Saturday morning under sunny skies to check the many trail options and find Little Songer Butte (2400'). The summit is a collection of big boulders that all three climbed up on for lunch with a great view of all the surrounding buttes around the very low lake.

It turns out that the area at the far end of the lake away from the dam offers a bonanza of new hiking opportunities for the new year. Stay tuned for scouting reports and new hikes.

Getting to the hike was easy. It's just past the 7 mile post down Highway 66 to a left at the Greensprings Spur sign, then about one mile down the road to a right into the lot with room for 20 cars and a restroom next to the trailhead.

Happy Holidays,
Rich Stickle
541-891-4067

Track download: Emigrant Lake 12-19-20.gpx