It was a long drive but worth it. The smoke was gone and the temperature was in the mid 70's. When we reached the lunch venue above Echo Lake, a cool breeze came up. The views were spectacular. There was just enough smoke to the East to obscure Shasta, but nothing resembling a fire was visible.
After lunch most of us continued on to Lily Pad Lake and then up the hill to the overlook above Tow Lake. Bob Hutton treated us to some good lessons on the local rocks, particularly the marble here and there. Some flowers were at their peak and some good photos were taken.
Red Butte was in its glory in the sun, as well as Kangaroo Mountain.
Note: It is under 3 miles to the Echo Lake overlook and 1.5 miles from there to Lily Pad Lake. Figure on a 9 mile hike return and 4.5 hours of walking. The ascent to Echo Lake overlook is about 1,150 feet and total ascent is about 1,500 feet.