Morning View Looking West from Badger Summit
With the recent deluge we had and the 80 degree temps of the past few days, I wondered how the trails weathered the storm and how the vegetation was handling the heat so I got in an early hike this morning on the Canyon Trail. Several people had the same idea even though I was up there around 6 a.m. I’m sure the early morning and evening times will become more popular along Columbia Basin trails as the weather heats up. I was greeted by the common breeze out of the south. The green and red cheat grass danced in the wind.
Balsamroot Along the Canyon Trail
I was pleased to see plenty of flowers still in full color.
Lupine Along the Canyon Trail
There were flox and balsamroot and lupine.
Phlox Lining the Canyon Trail
I also spotted a new bloom along the trail; a small, vibrant, yellow cluster of blooms that I believe is Piper’s Daisy.
I Believe this is Erigeron piperianus, Piper's Daisy
I spotted a seemingly common site, a Western Meadowlark perched on lookout atop the Lake Lewis marker. As I walked up the trail along the draw at the bottom and on the switchbacks towards the top, I did have to walk carefully to avoid the ruts caused by the recent deluge we had.
Ruts Along the Canyon Trail
Fortunately, there were no big washouts on the Canyon Trail, I’m not sure how the other routes look. I love hiking in the early morning because the colors seem more vivid with the long sun rays. The view to the west and Rattlesnake Mountain was beautiful. I guess, if I had one word of advice, it would be to get on the trail soon to enjoy the spring wildflowers! They will dry up soon with the warmer days. Others will take their place but I find the spring provides the best colors. Enjoy!