NEWS FLASH--Wildflowers are in bloom already this year! We are happy to report Grass widows and Salt and Pepper Lomatium have been spotted on both Catherine Creek trails and Dalles Mountain. It will be a few weeks yet before the blossoms appear in quantity and get larger in size.
Wildflower hikes planned. The purpose of the wildflower hikes is to get people together to enjoy and appreciate wildflowers, and to learn from each other about their lives, their struggles, and what we can do to help them. Please pre-register with the contact person at least 72 hours (three days) in advance. Contact Don Hardin, donhardin2@gmail.com (this is change in email address) or call 509-493-4819. Registration is to prevent your showing up for a hike that has been canceled or changed.
You are fully responsible for your health and safety, including transportation to and from the trailhead, and understanding and accepting risks that come with being in a beautiful, wild, natural environment with possible delay in obtaining medical care. Maximum 10 hikers, Minimum 4.
Most hikes have two phases: (1) approximately an hour of gentle hiking with emphasis on plant identification and (2) more vigorous hiking designed to cover ground quickly and see as many wildflowers as time permits.
What to bring: (1) Water, (2) Clothing as needed for possible weather, (3) personal items including toiletries and sunscreen, (4) Lunch if needed. For most hikes we expect to be back to the cars by noon or at least by 1 pm. Camera optional. Sorry, no pets please. Children welcome if supervised by legally responsible adult.
Preregistration is required for all hikes at least 3 days prior to the hike. To pre-register please contact Don Hardin at 509 493 4819 or email donhardin2@gmail.com.
March 23, Saturday, 10 am, Catherine Creek--joint field trip with Columbia Gorge Photo Club
April 2, Tuesday. 9 am, Catherine Creek and Major Creek Road
April 20, Saturday, 9 am, Dalles Mountain Ranch
May 7, Tuesday, 9 am, Rowena Butte and Tom McCall Point--meet at small parking area to the west side of the road.
May 18, Saturday, 9 am, Weldon Wagon Trail--meet at turnoff of Indian Creek Road from highway 141.
June 4, Tuesday, 9 am, Conboy Lake--meet at the headquarters parking lot
June 29, Saturday 9 am Umbrella Falls--meet at the trailhead one-quarter-mile before the main Mount Hood Meadows parking area.
July 13, Saturday, 9 am, High Prairie and Lookout Mountain
August 24, Saturday, 8 am, Bird Creek Meadows and Hell Roaring Meadows--meet at Trout Lake High School Parking Area. (High clearance vehicles needed.)
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