A mossy knob near the Estes Lake trailhead. (Photos by Bob Muth except one noted as Roger Benson)

Seven Swan Rangers hiked to Estes Lake on the north end of Crane Mountain on Saturday, April 6.

Though a bit of a drippy day, this well-glaciated area offered spring green-up and the season's first wildflower booms!

Raindrops form jewels in the leaves of lupine!

Buttercups are usually the first wildflower blooms of Spring!

Though Estes Lake may look a bit subdued under brooding skies, . . .

. . . the Swan Rangers and this Canada goose found it a welcoming spot!

A cliff just downhill from Estes Lake offers a nice lunch spot and views of Woods Bay and Flathead Lake! (Roger Benson 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 hiking in bear country, remember to carry bear spray and avoid the 3-D's: dawn, dusk, and darkness.

Everyone is welcome!