A view of Lake Blaine from Hemler Creek Trail. (Keith Hammer photos)

Eight Swan Rangers hiked into North Hemler Creek on Saturday, August 10, gaining great views of Lake Blaine and Kalispell!

Though the hike begins on a couple miles of closed road off the left fork of the Peters Ridge Road, the trail quickly ascends through old-growth fir and larch forest into tranquil apline country!

The crossing of South Hemler Creek is an easy walk late in the summer, but testy in the spring!

Once the trail rounds the cliffs into North Hemler, the trail quickly ascends into the alpine!

Hold that pose! Though lunch is a good turn-around spot, another mile upcountry brings hikers to Alpine Trail #7 and Doris Creek!

A wonderful mix of rock, scree, alpine forest, and valley views!

Baneberry: the bane of all berries and indeed poisonous - but so beautiful!

The Swan Rangers meet every Saturday at the Echo Lake Cafe for breakfast at 7:30, leaving at 8:30 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!