The Swan Crest viewed from Crane Mountain! (Keith Hammer photos)
Nine Swan Rangers hiked above valley fog on the eastern slopes of Crane Mountain Saturday, November 1, 2014!
It's a great place to wander in cedar forests among fungal friends!
Exposed bedrock and thin soils create openings for sun and views!
Rock smoothed by glaciers long ago is now covered in moss, but scarred in places by bikes and motorcycles seeking thrills.
This conk looks like a flying saucer that ran into a tree . . .
. . . while this one weeps mountain dew!
This "nurse" stump displays a miniature forest of its own, including tiny cedar seedlings!
Hike safely and don't get conked on the head!
The Swan Rangers meet every Saturday at the Echo Lake Cafe for breakfast at 8:30, leaving at 9:30 for a partial day outing in the northern Swan Mountains and foothills.
They carpool from the Swan River School parking lot next to the Cafe.
When hiking in bear country, remember to carry bear spray and avoid the 3-D's: dawn, dusk, and darkness.
Big game rifle season runs Oct 25 - Nov 30, so best to wear "hunter orange" while hiking!
Everyone is welcome!