mushrooms were still sprouting,
leaves were damp,
and Hardy Creek was rushing.
I decided to divert to Hardy Ridge in hopes that this would give the weather time to reconsider and clear just a bit (please!). The mighty horse bridge across Hardy Ck has always been a perspective favorite.
It wasn't actually raining as I climbed toward Hardy Ridge, but the mist condensing in the trees simulated rain and, higher up, a melting recent light snowfall only added to the moistening. The ridge crest can provide some excellent views of the Gorge and Hood, but not today. Just the eternal mists,
a snowy ridge,
and 3" of new snow were on offer.
I started toward Phlox Point, but wet vegetation and the non-view quickly convinced me to bail. I went down the W side trail, then took the road toward the equestrian TH. At the big dogleg bend at about 1000', I headed XC downhill to the campground's water tank. This is an easy 0.3 mi connector that lets you make Hardy or Hamilton/Hardy into a true loop. Only the last 300' are tricky - the tank sits at the bottom of a steep, slippery ravine and is guarded by blackberry vines. Not a great day but a decent hike (9.8 mi RT, 2400' EG) and a good test of the new camera (like it!).
I like your pics, especially the B/W ones