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Ricks Canyon, 30 June, 2019

Six hikers did an up-and-back hike in Rick’s Canyon, from the trailhead in Right Hand Fork to Marie Springs Road at the top. We enjoyed a mostly overcast day, which kept temperatures pleasant, though we noticed it also seemed a bit more humid than usual, and the occasional breeze was welcome.

This was a great time of year to walk this trail, as many flowers were out, adding splashes of color to the lush green vegetation that surrounded us the whole way. We identified one Townsend’s solitaire by its single-note call, and on the way down we spotted a golden-mantled ground squirrel that cooperatively perched in a chokecherry long enough to allow a picture. We also saw several different kinds of butterflies as well as a fair number of somewhat less desirable mosquitoes, which seemed to have thrived during the recent wet spring.

The only other trail users we encountered were mountain bikers, who were all quite courteous when they passed us. A few people on ATVs went by on the Marie Springs Road while we were having lunch, but otherwise we had all the greenery to ourselves.

Trip Summary:

• Six hikers: Dave P., Kathy, Teresa, Jim, Darcy, and Laurel (leader)
• Started hiking from the trailhead about 8:40
• Arrived at Marie Springs Road about 11:00
• Had lunch from 11:00 to 11:30
• Back at the cars by 1:30 and back in Logan a bit before 2:00
• Cloudy skies, warm temperatures with occasional mild breezes
• Total distance was about 9 miles, with about 1900 feet of elevation gain.

Thanks to Laurel for the narrative and photos and Teresa for the GPS data.