5-1-2014 LaSalle and Tonti Canyons

We had 23 hardy hikers for the Walker's Club today.  It rained off and on during the hike.  We started in the Lodge's Lobby with an introduction of the hike.  We had a few new hikers.  Some of them carpooled with the regular members.  We drove out to the Parkman's Plain parking lot and started our walk from there.

As soon as we got on the trail, we could tell that it was going to be a great flower day.  After all the beginning of May is great for wildflowers. I will put the flower photos at the end.  At the beginning of this hike there is a major stairway.  Once you get to the bottom there is a resting bench and a great view of Owl Canyon Overlook (closed).

Taking a break

Owl Canyon Overlook (closed)

On the way into LaSalle Canyon there is this fallen tree trunk.  Many people like to look at the wild looking formation it makes.

On the way to LaSalle Canyon

On the trail to LaSalle Canyon

Narrow trail.  Watch your step and head

LaSalle Canyon

Sandstone carved steps in LaSalle Canyon

 I was carrying the umbrella for the rain, so I thought I would also take it under the LaSalle Canyon waterfall.  It was coming down so hard it was bending the metal in the umbrella.










 This was Evelyn's second time with the Walker's Club. I think she is the youngest member we ever had walk with us.  Well really her Dad did most of the walking. 

Evelyn, Dad and Lelo

I love my boots.  Have I said that before?  I don't have to worry about falling off a rock or tree limb to cross the streams. 

My great boots!

Tonti Canyon Waterfall on the Left

Tonti Canyon sometimes has 2 waterfalls.  Today was a great day.

Tonti Canyon Waterfall on the right

Virginia Bluebells

  If you look closely some of the pussy toes are oblong and the others are round.  I heard somewhere that one is male and the other is female.  Don't know which is which. 

Pussy toes

Prairie Trillium are still my favorite wildflower.  They will be out there for another 2-3 weeks. 

Prairie Trillium and May Apple

 

Swamp Buttercup

Violets

Yellow Bellwort

Jack in the Pulpit

Miterwort

It is very rare to see Squirrel Corn and Dutchman's Britches.  These were found in LaSalle Canyon

Dutchman's Britches and Squirrel Corn

Wild Phlox

White Nodding Trillium

Bridge near LaSalle and Tonti Canyons

Serviceberry trees are all in bloom in the park.

Tonti and LaSalle Canyon Bridge

Despite the on and off rain, we had a great hike.  Every week is a new adventure.  

 I will leave you with this: Wherever you may hike or walk, just put one foot in front of the other.  It's all about the experience not the destination.