We went to Excelsior Peak. We took the easy route. The hard route is a much easier drive, but the elevation gain is much more than I would be interested in. I feel fortunate that this hike was accessible. The road was closed for several years due to a wash out. The trail was in excellent condition, especially considering that it’s been somewhat inaccessible for a few years. Of course trail crews could have taken the long way in, but that doesn’t seem overly likely. They wouldn’t have had much time to actually work on the trails at that point.

The trail is beautiful. The beginning is forested before breaking out into a clearing with some ponds (Damfino Lakes). After that the climb is forested for a while. There’s a clearing with some grass and flowers. The best is yet to come. It’s fantastic when the trail emerges from the trees onto a steep slope that’s absolutely covered with flowers. Valerian is the predominant species, with lupine and some others adding to the experience. I can’t describe how wonderful it is, and pictures certainly don’t do it justice. Later the trail ascends to Excelsior Peak. The views are superb - Mounts Shuksan and Baker weren’t shy today. I took a different trail (not on my map) down and circumnavigated the peak. That trail leads hikers through two more wonderful wildflower covered slopes.

Yesterday a restaurant cashier commented about the upcoming 90 degree temperatures. She asked, “Are you excited?” In case you’re wondering, the answer is no. I don’t prefer to hike in such hot weather. But that’s not surprising since I don’t prefer such hot weather for anything. Well I suppose that maybe that temperature would be okay if I were staying inside. In that case I would have the AC on, so there’s no reason to get excited. I simply can’t fathom why anyone would be so happy about such hot weather. But then most people would think I’m crazy for getting excited about walking out in the middle of nowhere.