Mon, May 24 2004 - Nihahi Creek (View Original Event Details)
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An unexpected return visit from Old Man Winter today meant our usually serious and somber group had a chance to kick back and have a day-long frolic in the snow. When we arrived at the trailhead, I think we were all a bit surprised to see how much snow was out on the west end of Highway 66. Donning our shells, gaiters and senses of adventure, we set off on the trail which was somewhat mucky but mostly snowy. On up the campground road, and then the first part of the Little Elbow Trail we trudged until we reached the start of the Nihahi Creek trail. A steady switch-back climb up through the forest which spat its melting snow down on our heads, we enjoyed a couple of views of the mountains, and a surprise mini-blizzard on the way up to our lunch spot, about 2km before the end of the official trail.
Invigorated from their lunch, some of the more playful members indulged in some extended snow frolic while others of us watched from a safe distance. After lunch and "play time", seven headed down into the canyon for a bit, to eventually rendezvous with the rest of us who were retracing our route down the trail. Another surprise mini-blizard in the exact same spot on the trail, and then we were out and back on the Little Elbow Trail that had become a mucky, slushy mess, which of course invited yet more shenanigans from the playfuls.
Afterward, on to Kilkenny, where we were joined by Cheryl, and indulged in a stimulating game of "Telephone". A bit later, we were joined by Dave and Jon who had been out on their own adventure for the day.
-- Rhonda