The Trailhead was just at the side of the highway and the first thing we had to do was clamber over the railroad tracks. This trail was just idling when we crossed.
We then crossed the Miette River and headed up-valley above the river before we veered right to climb over a forested ridge.
Most of the hike was through heavy forest but we did come across Minaga Creek at 2.3 km, or about 1 1/2 miles.
Looking downstream.
A short spur trail took us to the shore of this tiny, elongated lake and views of Indian Ridge and Muhigan Mountain across the Miette Valley.
Just a quarter-of-a-mile further, back on the main trail, we reached Dorothy Lake, the largest of the three sisters. Dorothy Lake is tightly embraced by forest and quite similar in appearance to Virl, except for a lack of distant views.
Another quarter-of-a-mile on we arrived at our lunch spot - Christine Lake - with its rock peninsulas and islands.
This is a little traveled trail, we were the only ones at Christine Lake during our lunch and left when another family, from Calgary, arrived so they could have the experience of the quiet and beauty to themselves. But first, we took their picture with the lake in the background.
Lovely Christine Lake - a gem!
Today's hike:
Length - 6.04 miles (9.63 km)
Duration - 3 hours, 44 minutes (including lunch)
Elevation gain - 1,169 feet (339 meters)
Why are the trees changing colors? They look to be dying.
ReplyDeleteYou are so right! They are dead, victims of the white pine beetle. The fact that they are "red" indicates that they died quickly. They will, probably next season, turn silver, loose their needles, and fall over. As the Ranger told us - "Nature's way." For now, in the pictures, they kind of look as if they are turning to fall color.
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