Subtitle: Lots of snakes
The boys and I went to Black Diamond Mines regional park for a quick one day backpacking trip in May. It was gorgeous weather and we had a really nice time exploring a brand new place.Sunday morning drop off in Clayton
Larissa dropped us off in Clayton, on the map about about 6 miles from the park visitor center. Katerina and Larissa walked with us for a little way.
Larissa and Katerina walking in for the first few minutes
A family picture taken at the point where the girls turned around
200 yards later: snake number 1
A few minutes after the girls turned around we ran into snake number 1. We had already had several discussions about snakes, as I was aware they were out this time of year. This one looked scary from a distance but was harmless and slithered off with very little prompting.
Snake number 1. Not a ratter but looks pretty close from a distance
So we continued up the trail. The temperature was perfect, there was a breeze in our faces, the sun was shining. The grass was waving from the breeze. There were abundant flowers. It was, in fact, a perfect day for a hike.
Continuing up the trail
We were very cautious because we thought snake number 2 could be hiding in the grass on the trail
200 yards later: snake number 2
So this one was a rattler. I saw it 30 feet away and didnt go much closer than that. I threw some small stones and dirt to try to get it to slither off the trail but it did not move. It turns out it was dead. Someone has squashed the head flat, probably with one of those several rocks you see nearby, and sliced the rattle off with a knife.
Dead ratttlesnake
The back door to Black Diamond Mines regional park
We shortly arrived at the back entrance to the park, and stopped for a snack. The reason we didnt have lunch at this time is that someone forgot to bring the sandwiches. Fortunately we had lots of snacks and had a big dinner planned, perhaps somewhat earlier than previously anticipated.
BDM west entrance
Panoramic photo with repeating Robert and Erick
Heading down towards the visitor center. Rose Hill cemetary (circa 1900) in background.
Heading towards the campsite
We filled up water at the visitor center and started the final 2 miles to the campsite.
Fantastic vistas on the way to the campsite
200 yards later: snake number 4
I didnt get a picture of snake number 3, and number 4 is one I did not identify yet. Presumably harmless but treated with utmost respect anyway.
Tent setter-upper extraordinaire
As per usual technique, I relaxed while Robert set up the tent.
Pasta dinner
We cooked pasta, and made sauce from an onion, a head of garlic, a pound of ground beef that was frozen when we left in the morning, and a jar of tomato paste with some spices I had prepackaged.
Yes, I brought a little cutting board. Whats another couple ounces when you have a 40 lb pack?
Yum
Erick trying to be patient. That boy loves pasta.
The next morning we had oatmeal and the treat of a lemon soda that someone thoughtfully schlepped 7.6 miles in over hill and dale.
Oatmeal in our new stainless steel bowls
Coffee and/or tea in our new stainless steel bowls cups
Hiking out on Monday morning
Monday was another glorious day. We packed up and headed back.
Erick and Dad
Robert and Dad
Erick and Robert
Miner's trail
We went back out a different way than we came in. To the extent that you can, you should always make a point of doing this.
Trail head for Miner's trail
We gained a lot of elevation fast
More elevation gain
But once up on the ridge, the views were great
Final picture
Larissa met us at the parking lot and we were done. It was a great place to hike and we plan to return.
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