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Wind Cave Way to Beirdneau Ridge, May 17, 2014

Eleven people went on the hike: Dave P (leader), Ron S, Roddy, Ron F, Kris, Kathy, Dave W, Denis, Jane, Christine, and Alex. One hiker returned early to his car at the trailhead but we kept in touch by walkie-talkie radio.

The day was sunny and warm enough for rattlesnakes to be out, and apparently the first two hikers woke one up so it finally buzzed and coiled for the third hiker. The hillside was yellow with arrow-leaf balsam root and dyers woad. We reached the ridge at about 10:45 and everyone was ready for lunch. Since we had plenty of time one group went west to an overlook of Cache Valley where they enjoyed scenic views and pelicans flying overhead, one group went east up the ridge, others worked on cleaning up a campfire ring too near the trail, and Kathy took a nap.

On the way back Dave W and Jane took time to chop out burdock and other weeds.

Trip Summary:

• Met 8:00 at Smith's, as usual
• Arrived at the Beirdneau ridge about 10:45
• Back at the trailhead about 1:30
• Our GPS showed 6 miles
• The map shows 2230 feet of elevation gain

Hiking on the Wind Cave Way trail with Logan Peak in the background

Our GPS track showed 6 miles and 2400 feet of elevation

You can also look at our route using Google Earth or the various map and aerial views of Google Maps.