On a perfect day for hiking with partially sunny sky and 70-degree temperatures, nine of us including two new hikers headed out to the Pilot Rock viewpoint. We drove up I-5, taking exit #6 onto old Highway 99 south for 2.3 miles, going left on Pilot Rock Road for 1 mile to the PCT crossing near the gate.
We headed out on the PCT towards Pilot Rock. This was a melodious hike with lazuli buntings singing all along the trail accompanied by some warblers. Diverse wildflowers were everywhere – we lost count after 30. After hiking along a ridge and through forested areas, we continued along the PCT to the viewpoint for Pilot Rock. Everyone took a rock seat to view Pilot Rock and Mount Shasta in the distance. Returning we found even more wildflower species. All agreed it was a great day to savor the views, fresh breeze, and comradeship with fellow hikers. Distance 5.5 miles with an elevation gain or about 950 ft.
Kay