Rangers turn a switchback as they climb into the clouds! (Keith Hammer photos)

Ten Swan Rangers hiked the Switchback Trail Saturday, April 20, until they ran out of switchbacks and promptly found graupel instead!

They got a brief glimpse of the valley below, between the tree line and the cloud line, as occassional springtime squals moved through!

A faint glimpse of the Flathead Valley as the trail enters the burned area - and the clouds!

Still on the switchbacks and trail.

Group photo and sentiment: "What happened to the switchbacks?"

Burned snag abstract view!

Lichens brighten up the day!

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. (These times will shift an hour earlier beginning May 4).

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!