TOWNies!
Nancy B, Jacque A, Cindy S, Maria V, Dawn K, June A, Barbara W, Bev T, Tracy P, Joan C, Sandy and Don B, new member Koby F w/family and friends, Kim F, Jackie D, and Cheryl C joined me for a perfect weather weekend at Inks Lake for birding, hiking, kayaking, swimming, visiting and the like. And let’s not forget June’s sweet Dolly; Cheryl’s little guy, Georgie and Bev’s feisty little Chico.
Most campers arrived on Thursday. That evening a few of us paddled to Devil’s Hole. We spotted a Great Blue Herron up close and personal and enjoyed the beautiful reflection of the setting sun on the calm waters. That evening most everyone turned in early.
Unfortunately Chery C had to wave goodbye to the group on Friday as she only had a one night reservation. Jacque A led a morning hike: a 4 hour, 5.5 mile “death march” (their words) along the Devil’s Backbone trail towards a far off bird blind. Jackie D trailed off to enjoy the geology of the area, and Cindy S found a spot to quietly do her beautiful watercolor paintings. Others marched on with Jacque towards their destination and Cindy S joined them near the blind. Later that morning June A and I later hiked a portion of the trail. This is such a beautiful trail; not to be missed. Later that afternoon several of us gathered to cool off in the lake and swap stories. That evening we gathered around the campfire to visit and had our traditional walk around the loop.
Sadly June had to leave us on Saturday morning to help Sheila McC after the passing of her mom. Jenny F and Marsha K came in that morning to lead a hike with several campers and day trippers (see her trip report). Others: Bev T, Nancy B, Joan C, Barbara W, Kim F and I enjoyed kayaking in the direction of Inks Lake Dam. Later that afternoon several of us again sat around to swap stories and have another swim in the lake. That evening we gathered around to visit, eat cupcakes and watermelon and enjoy each other’s company. Maria V cooked ribs, corn and other delicious items to share. We again had our walk around the loop.
Most everyone packed up Sunday morning to head home. Joan C stayed on an extra night and Sandy and Don B were staying for a few extra days. We did try to get another morning paddle in to Devil’s Hole but the wind had other plans. Joan C did brave it on her own heading towards the Inks Lake Dam.
Be sure to check out Maria’s new truck/camper creation next time you camp with her; very creative. For convenience sake, photos will be posted on the Meetup website under Inks Lake outing. Thank you all for joining me this weekend and being respectful of social distancing requirements. MarieW