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Ten courageous members gathered Friday afternoon at the campground despite the looming threat of stormy weather. We had the whole range of camping styles represented, from backpacking tents and freeze-dried gunk to a luxury motor home and BBQ'ed steaks with all the trimmings. We had a single common purpose though, and that was to have a fun weekend no matter what Mother Nature threw at us. Friday night Ken hosted a candle-light soiree (no open fires allowed) where we debated, amongst other things, the accuracy of weather forecasts, and that predictions of showers where likely over-rated. Between swatting gnats and other winged nuisances, Gord was heard by some telling his 2 truths, 1 lie routine... something about seeing Gordon Campbell inebriated... but I digress. That night it rained, and dawn brought low clouds hanging off the mountains. Ken had Flower Ridge in mind as a day trip, but we settled for a hike up the Elk River Valley where the protection of the forest would shield us from whatever the day would bring. Starting off from the trail head at 10 AM, we travelled up a good trail for 2 1/2 hours, passing through very nice old growth forest, past a beaver dam and pond, and over sturdy bridges with views of a water fall or two. All the while we had showers, though under the forest canopy we got mostly wet from the warm humid air. At 12:30, somewhere between the first and second campsites, we stopped for lunch. Landslide Lake, a destination some had thoughts of attaining, was still 1 1/2 hours further on. The return journey was, as you might expect, a reverse of the previous, only facing 180 degrees from the former. Of note to the naturalists in the club, we spotted 2 clumps of Indian Pipe. Of further note, we where fully clothed at all times. That evening after dinner, Frank brought out his gas-fireplace, and we all huddled around. We expanded on the 2 truths, 1 lie theme, only varied it with 2 truths and another truth with a slight lie, or all lies.. not really sure. You had to be there. I think it was wine induced mind bending that brought out stories of cats in a oven to being bitten by rabid donkeys. See what you all missed? After still more rain early the next morning, the general enthusiasm for a slog up Crest Mountain was tempered somewhat, despite the small hints of blue forming up high. See a Forum post for that fascinating report. Thanks Ken for organizing the camp and the Elk Valley hike. The spirit of the group overcame the dampness, and we all enjoyed each other's good company. (Bob)   [Bob St.John photo]  [Bob St.John photo]  [Bob St.John photo]  [Bob St.John photo] Report contributors: Bob S, Participant list: Gordon F, Pat F, Jennifer H, Robin H, Frank J, Marjorie J, Ken R, Bob S, Kathryn W, Dirk Z, (G) = public guest (L) = lapsed member |