Alpine Meadows

Max and I set out on the Vista Ridge Trail up to Elk cove along the Timberline Trail. We were hoping to see alpine meadows ablaze with colorful wildflowers. Alas, I think we were about a week too late. There were a few slopes speckled with lupine and western pasque flower seedheads. And, we did see some alpine lilies and paintbrush. Perhaps we were spoiled by an earlier visit to McNeil Point. It was a beautiful day on Mt. Hood! I had forgotten how enjoyable solo hiking is. It affords a quietness for introspection that is different from hiking in a group.

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