Forbidden Plateau to Mt. Washington - Sept. 30, 2017

Wow! What colors! I've never been so dazzled by fall colors as I was yesterday on our Island Mountain Ramblers' hike from Forbidden Plateau to Mt. Washington.

We started our 27 k. hike at 8:20 under cloudy skies, with showers in the forecast We headed up the old ski area, and although going from this end meant we had more elevation gain than starting from Mt. Washington, I was glad we got this part over first, as it wasn't 't scenic at all. Thanks to our leader, John Robertson, for arranging our car shuttles and deciding to start from the old Wood Mountain (Forbidden Plateau) Ski Area.

Heading up the old ski area. 

John and Karen scoping out our route at the entrance to Strathcona Park. 

It wasn't long, however, before the colors assaulted our senses.

One of the many beautiful fungi along the way.

                                                                             And many colorful shrubs!                                                     

Bil nearing McKenzie Meadows

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Mike crossing the "bridge" in McKenzie Meadows


Karen in McKenzie Meadows.
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Rain-infused blueberry leaves


More magnificent fungi.


One of the many beautiful ponds en route.


Can it get any prettier?


A few whiskey jacks checked us out.


Natural lines


Paradise Meadows, with Mt. Washington in the background.

And after 9 hours, we reached Mt. Washington, tired but oh so infused by the beauty we had experienced!