It was bluebird sunny all the way to the first open viewpoint at around 1600’, where I had a good view of Defiance (with a bit more snow),
and W down the Gorge.
As I climbed higher, the wind began to pick up and the clouds, which had earlier looked to be dissipating, actually started to thicken and infiltrate the forest, creating some wonderful visual effects with the remaining sunlight.
By the time I reached Puppy Dog at 2500’, the wind had risen further and great swirls of mist and clouds were being blown up and over the W side of the mountain.
Puppy Dog was in a white-out one moment,
and clear the next.
The wind across the ridge from Puppy Dog to the summit wasn’t too strong (10-15 mph) but it was cold, so I hurried on to the summit, had a snack, then headed down via Augspurger Mtn trail (#4407). From this trail, I watched as the wind scoured the W face of Dog with clouds and fog.
There was no snow to speak of on any of the trails or the summit. However, there were some slick spots on the 4407 trail due to a mixture of mud, pine needles, and wet leaves. Lower down there were still a few vestiges of Fall colors but they’ll all be gone soon.
In season, flowers seem to get all the attention. But at this time a year the fungi have a chance to be appreciated for their delicate colorations, patterns, and textures.
Dog is a short hike but a good one - particularly for souls who spend too much time in cubicles and conferences. By the time I’d gotten back to the car, the sun was back out and all of the conference-induced spiritual mustiness had dissipated. Thank you Dog Mountain!
