We met at 9:00 at the Trailhead parking lot on Lupine St. for a crisp start for a lovely ca. 4-mile hike. Nine intrepid Friday Moderate hikers completed sections of Oredson-Todd, Mike Uthoff and White Rabbit trails that led to views of Grizzly Peak and a birds-eye look over northwest Ashland. While overall elevation gain was modeate (1,000 ft.), some steep pitches and switchbacks added interest and good aerobic exercise.

Hikers took in views of amazing large rounded boulders bearing lichen and noticed madrones with varieties of natural sylvan body art along the trails. The mood was mellow, with alternations of unforced conversation and silence that enhanced the experience.

Watching hummingbirds along with the juncos in the manzanitas was also a winter treat.

Photos By: Kate