Ridgeline nigh vernal equinox

ByMichael Goatbells

Getting out in the woods on solstice and equinox is a must do. The cascade foothills were covered in snow, creeks and streams were near / above flood levels.

Weather suggested cool temperatures and maybe a few localized rain showers. Ridgeline Trail was the perfect trail given the conditions and my objective of spending way more time on the trail than in the car. Sunrise was 7:20 ish, so I was at the Spring Blvd trailhead ready to hike by 6:30 with headlamp on. I hiked to Dillard with headlamp, meeting 1 trail runner along the way. Trail conditions were WET with several washouts.

The Route

Spring Blvd to Spencer top then down to Blanton Ridge th. Blanton to Spencer top and then back to Spring Blvd.

Trail conditions were wet! Water seeped out of every pore on the hill and in several places the trail needed some help. That same place between Dillard and Fox Hollow was materially worse.

Human traffic was moderate with most of the regulars on the trail today and few nebies.

Looking Out

Only hitting Spencer top 2x today produced fewer good looking out photos and the unstable air did not help either.

Birds of every size and shape were out on the hill and even several turkey vultures cruised around the hill looking for lunch. This robin however took the prize looking so much tougher atop the snag.

Flowers

Early flowers were out both on the ground and the trees … the trilliums were tucked in hiding from yesterday’s hard rain.

Data Geek Corner

  • Shoes: Altra Lone Peak WP boots
  • Pack: Yar.gear
  • Upper Layers: 3 (base layer, Patagonia mid-weight, FarPointe Fleece first 2hrs)
  • Upper shell: none
  • Trekking Poles: Yes – Gossamer Gear
  • Approximate Times: 06:30 to 13:45
  • Carbon ratio: 1.5 driving karma, 7 actual hiking time – 83.6 hours banked YTD
  • Notes:
    • Photos: medium
    • Speed: slower
    • Difficulty: easy

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