On Monday, we had a cool short hike up to Hobart Bluff. It was a clear sunny day with temps in the 50s at the morning start to the 60s atop the Bluff.
We've been lucky this summer with cooler weather on our hikes and not much smoke obstructing views. From the Bluff, we could see Pilot Rock to the west, then Mt. Ashland past Pilot and Mt. McLoughlin to the east, coming up the trail. Down to the south, we could see Mt. Shasta with a long train of clouds trailing off to the east.
The third month of summer had mostly dried the hillsides, but our nature photographers found floral color to brighten the postings.
Randy and Linda arrived early at the TH as usual, and Randy used his extra time to climb Hobart Peak, which rises slightly NW of the Bluff. He met us on top for an early lunch, and our group photo with Shasta in the background.
We were all happy to welcome Patricia back from an eight-week layoff due to a friend's car running over her leg.
The hike was just 3 miles with 300' of elevation gain, so we arrived back at the parking on Soda Mountain Road at noon.
I texted Gary S., another of our walking wounded, and he met us at the Rite Aid parking lot. After warm greetings, we headed over to ROCO for refreshments and pleasant conversation.
Next week's hike will be to the Sky Lakes Wilderness to visit Lakes Natasha, Elisabeth, and Isherwood.
Happy Trails
Rich
