Chuckanut Ridge loop Trailblazer hike

We've had some sweltering record breaking temperatures here the last few days. I was glad it was a little overcast and cooler today for our hike. 18 of us carpooled to Gates Overlook to begin our trek of the Chuckanut Ridge trail.

We have some interesting conversations as we carpool. Today we discussed someones fancy jewelry (Hematite & Amethyst) and we were told it wasn't meant to be decorative but to help her arthritis. So we spent much of the rest of the drive discussing everything we knew about arthritis treatments - NSAIDS, Tylenol, Magnets, Copper, Crystals, Reflexology and best of all herbal foot treatments. Such are the stimulating conversations of the Senior Trailblazers ;-)

We did get a bit of a view at the overlook parking lot.

Gates Overlook

We did see some flowers today even though our hike was mostly in the forest. We saw the Columbian Lily, and the Coral Root.

I didn't get a picture of them, but the Huckleberries are ripening! Several were ripe enough for a tasty treat.

Our hike today was mostly gentle ups and downs with some nice flat sections - perfect.

one of our - "a bit steeper" downs

Finally lunch -

We were treated to a nice view while we ate.

We did a loop today and while we were heading back we spotted "Dot Island" through the trees. 

We did a little bit of road walking until we connected with the trail again -

Walking along a Foxglove and Daisy lined Cleator road

We connected back on to the trail by way of "Pat's escape". I found out that this trail is named after our fearless leader "Pat". He made this trail to give him a different route off of the ridge trail. Pretty cool!

"Pat's escape" sign on the tree

Our group of regulars were joined by 3 new women, they were a fun addition to our band of merry hikers!

Endomondo stats:

Total miles hiked - 6.65

Min. Altitude - 1041

Max. Altitude - 1878

Total ascent - 1430

Total descent - 1433