Opinion: A classic hike for exceptional wildflower displays and eye-popping views, Elk Mountain is well worth the stiff climb. The best turnaround spot is the cairn with a panoramic view over the Chilliwack River valley, there's really little point continuing to the viewless summit of Mount Thurston - unless, like me, you are keen to … Continue reading Elk-Thurston, 2 Jul 2022
Well that's the first month of the new year over. The days are getting noticeably longer again which is a great mood-lifter. I read something recently where the writer mentioned that they found January and February to be hopeful months because of those lengthening days, and I'm inclined to agree. The first signs of spring … Continue reading Being Outdoors, February 2023
Opinion An excellent hike for a clear sunny day, even out of flower season. The trail is steep in places but mostly enjoyable hiking, with open forest and great views of the jagged peaks of the North Cascades in one direction and the Coast Mountains in the other. Not a hike for solitude, but it … Continue reading Elk Mountain, 1 Nov 2020
Opinion It's a steep grind to get to that first rewarding view on Elk, but it only gets better after that with stunning views and immense wildflower displays. Going to Thurston is not to be done for the views, but the trail is quite wonderful and of course there are plenty of glacier lilies at … Continue reading Elk-Thurston, 1 Jun 2019
Opinion Today I realized that this is close to being the perfect summer hike with grand views and an extensive display of wildflowers. To see so many flowers blooming in the subalpine at the end of May was a real treat. It's a bit of a grunt getting up above the trees but after that … Continue reading Elk-Thurston, 31 May 2016
Being. Outdoors. 