Wildernessed and I decided to meet for a quick impromptu local hike in search of elusive flowers. We left the Saddle Rock TH just before noon and headed straight up Windy Ridge for a loop through what is referred to as the "Outback and then down Dry Gulch. Since we started out on a north facing slope flowers were sparse. Once on top we did spot a few.
Leaving the TH
Heading up Windy Ridge
Taking a pano of the outback
Mission Ridge is melting
Mt Maud in the distant V
Looking south into Pitcher Canyon
Our first stop was at the mining company dug pond to have a snack while watching ducks and being serenaded by frogs. Just then a young women appeared on the opposite side of the pond and yelled over saying she was looking for Lake Saddle Rock. After a brief moment to collect our thoughts we said, "yup, this the only body of water around and Saddle Rock is just across the canyon so this has to be it". She thanked us and sat down to enjoy the scenery.
Beehive and Lake Saddle Rock
The Ducks just swam into the brush as we arrived
Lots of frogs croaking
After coffee we looped out over the bluffs back to the TH while tossing out ideas for the upcoming hiking season that was upon us.
You can see a faint trail going up Rebar Ridge at center left
I always like the grind up Windy Ridge if you try and go nonstop and don't use poles it is a good leg and cardiovascular workout. The Outback and the high scenic trail above Dry Gulch are nice to close the loop. The colors are still faded and wildflowers in short supply coming up the North side and at higher elevations. Nice quick trip.
The line on the center right ridge is the Rebar Ridge trail.
Hit the Trail with Twin Peaks in the far background.
Pitcher Mountain 3900'
Wide Pano coming and going routes.
Seasonal tarn in the Outback.
Outback
Rock formations above Dry Gulch on a scenic section of trail.
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