My Hiking Journal: Entry 16

White Angelica
If you're a hiker, how do you choose your hikes?  What makes for a good hike that you would be willing to repeat?  It could be proximity to your house, stunning views, unique topography, access to a lake or river for fishing.  Some factors may discourage you - significant elevation gain, high popularity of the trail, long distances.

On July 21, 2017, we were swayed to select Stanton Lake due to distance (only 4 miles out and back), access to fishing, and the location (but more about that later).  #1 Son would be accompanying us, and the 'boys' were hankering to do some fishing together.  So off we went.
Fireweed
The trail climbs steadily, but it's not too strenuous, and within a mile and a bit we reached the foot of the lake.  Along the way, we were teased by partial glimpses of Great Northern Mountain.  The rushing sound of the creek leaving the lake could be heard on this section of the trail.


Once at the lakeshore, the trail flattened.  We encountered numerous hikers, and a group of campers occupied the shore at the head of the lake, but nonetheless the boys located peaceful spots to cast a line.  #1 Son caught one lake trout.

I kept myself occupied with the plentiful flora and fauna around me.

Stanton Lake, looking west with view of Great Northern Mountain



Great Northern Mountain
It didn't take much more for us to conclude that this is a trail worth recommending to others, which we have done regularly.  In fact, #1 Son brought his girlfriend here later that same summer, and we returned this summer with the couple that built our house.  Also, ever since this hike, #1 Son has been inspired by Great Northern Mountain, which he would like to climb some day.  (It is assailed from the opposite side that you see here, and involves 4800 feet of elevation gain over a six mile journey round trip. Whew!)  Watch this space!


Now, back to location.  Faithful readers will know about huckleberries, which pop up in my posts in pies and cakes and other delectables.  An important factor in selecting a hike is proximity to a restaurant that serves huck pie … what better way to conclude a hiking day?  Stanton Lake ticks the box - my 4Runner easily found its way to the parking lot of the Huckleberry Patch, conveniently situated on our way home!

Linking to:

All Seasons


Mosaic Monday


Nature Notes


Our World Tuesday
Our World Tuesday Graphic

Saturday's Critters

Skywatch Friday

Wandering Camera

Wednesday Around the World
  

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