The Stake Lake Trails were closed, but as the Ross Moore Fire lessened, the gate was opened and people returned to fish and paddle the lake and to bike, walk, and paddle the trails.    On a day in mid-September I hiked on ski trails to the base of McConnell Hill.  

Near the Basalt Bluff area I followed a snowshoe trail, then climbed straight up the steep slopes and arrived at a lookout.

Just as I reached the lookout I came right up to a bull moose who stared at me, before ambling off.    His mate followed.   I took a bit of time at the lookout to give them some space.  

Stake Lake could be seen to the west.

I followed the Bushwacker Trail in a counter-clockwise route along the rim of McConnell Hill.    From the southern lookout I could see Ross Moore Lake, Fred Lake and the forests of the area.     The burned forest from Ross Moore Lake going north and northwest was clear, but there was no smoke anywhere to be seen.    All was quiet over the hills in every direction.    Some images are shared here.     Click an image for a lightbox view and a caption.   

on top of McConnell Hill

Lac le Jeune from MCConnell Hill

McConnell Hill Lookout

moose at the lookout

from the McConnell Lookout

The route wound down from McConnell Hill onto the Sidewinder Trail, descending around the east, then the north side of the hill, linking back to the inner trails of the Stake Lake Trail system.    The hike was surprisingly good following the hot and smoky summer.    The Stake Lake Trails were spared and are available for us to enjoy again.  

A YouTube video shares some of the moments from this hike: