Saturday, April 5, 2014

Wildside Trail-De Leo Wall Hike

Today 6 folks and 2 dogs hit the trails at Cougar Mountain.  We reached the trail head around 9am, and were on the trail shortly after.  The trail was well marked, but we felt turned around a bit even though we found our way back to the trail head without issue.  I think it was because there are so many different trails leading off in all directions.  The website said it is a 4 mile hike with an estimated 350 feet of elevation gain.  Yeah, sure.  We thought that was a great underestimate as parts of it were pretty hilly which went on and on.  We passed by the viewpoint, which was a bummer, but none of us were energetic enough to turn around and head back to check it out.  Like I said, we weren't expecting such hilly conditions.  Nevertheless, we had a great time.  Cougar Mountain is very pretty and the trails were well maintained albeit muddy in spots.  We saw some trail runners, but never felt like it was too crowded.  We even had dry weather, which was a welcome surprise. 

Teresa and Riley

I was so excited Corey got to come on the hike.  It's the first time she's been in a long time because she is always so busy.  She brought her good friend, Ha-Yoon, along.

Teresa with Cirus and Riley













Love how the ferns just grow right out of the trees.

Pam holding up that tree for Teresa to pass under!






Mine shaft.






Group photo minus Pam our photographer:  Ha-Yoon, Corey, Scott, Susan & Teresa.  I could have sworn she took another photo with the puppies but it wasn't on my camera.  Huh!

Hiking is fun!