Swan Valley sunrise seen from Echo Lake Road. (Keith Hammer photo)
Nine Swan Rangers hiked to Elk Springs on a snow-spitting Saturday, December 28, 2019!
Snow depth went from skiff to gaiter-deep as the Rangers gained elevation!
Elk Springs are located high on the shoulder of Broken Leg Mountain, just below the bare scree slope right of center in this photo. (Keith Hammer photo)
That scree slope offers great views of Ferndale and Flathead Lake . . . (Joel Vignere photo)
. . . and could perhaps be more appropriately called a boulder field! (Pam Willison photo)
Not quite enough snow to ski on the old road that runs from Bear Creek to Wolf Creek . . . (Pam Willison photo)
. . . at least until one reaches the high point where the trail to Elk Spring heads off up the ridge! (Pam Willison photo)
Bear grass still poking through the snow! (Pam Willison photo)
Larch trees have a strong tap root and will sometimes bend clear over to the ground rather than uproot and fall down, at least when still young and limber! (Pam Willison photo)
Trees near Elk Springs flocked with hoar frost for the Holidays! (Pam Willison photo)
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 recreating in bear country, remember to carry bear spray and avoid the 3-D's: dawn, dusk, and darkness.
Everyone is welcome!