Friends on misty Spencer Butte

I needed to stay in town for a possible run to PDX so Spencer Butte was the hike and a bit later than typical. The weather prompted rain probably but light – huge dilemma on top outer gear. I chose to stay light – started with just base-layers (2) and hiking vest (pockets, camera and prevents pack rub on my fleece). After first time at Spencer top, the mist started and the wind picked up … windshield was sufficient – never took out rain shell.

On the way to trailhead, the sunrise was burning pink … like to think light reflecting off the cascade snowpack, but … ?

Hint: clicking on photos opens higher resolution image

A perfect example of fog following the valleys down from the mountains

Looking out east from Spencer top with the clouds, fog and 3 Sisters blanketed in snow …

The Route

Started at Blanton at 7:00 with a full trailhead parking lot and no headlamp. First to Spencer top and then down to S. Willamette TH and back to Spencer top and down to Fox Hollow and back to Spencer top for 3x at top. Then down to Fox Hollow TH and on Ridgeline back to Blanton. I never crossed Fox Hollow.

Trail conditions were great considering the wet weather we’ve had – some muddy spots but nothing to fret. No blowdowns and human traffic was surprisingly light given all the cars in the parking lot.

Friends along the way

The woods seemed to be waking up getting ready for spring – birds were noisy and everywhere. One shy deer just couldn’t quite figure me out. If you can find the deer in less than 2 seconds – bonus points.

A sparrow was all puffed up for winter – when I used Merlin sound ID several time, a sparrow was always in the songs.

This is probably one of the best photos ever (from my camera at least)! I saw the fungus and thought of my wonderful son-law and knew I had to take a picture – it was HUGE! Little did I know when I took the photo, there was a visitor on the fungus. – a dining room of best design!

Data Geek Cellar

• Shoes: Altra Lone Peak WP Boots
• Pack: Yar.gear
• Upper Layers: 2 (base layer, med Patagonia tech)
• Upper shell: Enlightened Equipment Copperfield
• Trekking Poles: Yes – Black Diamond Carbon
• Approximate Times: 07:00 to 13:00
• Carbon ratio: 0.5 driving, 6.00 actual – 51.8 hours banked YTD
• Notes: Moderate pace

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