On a day near the Fall Equinox I headed into the hills from the end of Abbey Road, on an eclectic route, making choices along the way, combining old double tracks, single tracks, and cross-country paths, combined to make a loop.     The hills were dry on the grasslands slopes and open forests.    There were a few birds put, including some grouse which burst upwards as I approached.  

This is my favorite kind of hiking, exploring routes to viewpoints, stopping to observe shaped trees, large lichen-covered boulders, wildflowers, pollinators and their predators, wet spots, hidden meadows, rocky ridges, birds, wildlife, and whatever “treasures” are encountered along the way.  

“Do not go where the path may lead.    Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”    (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

From the top of some of the hills there are views west and northwest to Kamloops Lake. 

We can also view the mine and Sugarloaf Mountain to the southeast. 

Directly south Greenstone Mountain rises up and we could see the summit fire lookout tower in the distance.  

But I also stopped to notice what was right next to my feet along the paths I chose.

mustard

silverleaf phacelia

fleabane

catchfly

rabbitbrush

curlycup gumweed

A few moments from the hike are captured in this YouTube video: