Busy Bumble
8/02/2021: This is a good hike. It was hazy at the top so we couldn't really see the ocean or the Cascade Range. Maybe next time. We got 6.9 mi and did the loop as described. Either AllTrails (6.1 mi) or we, with three of our measuring devices, are wrong. Good hike, do it when it's clear.
Per Travel Oregon: Since 1989 Marys Peak has been federally protected as a designated Scenic Botanical Special Interest Area, because of its rich and unique diversity of plant life. (For unknown reasons, the apostrophe in the peak’s name disappeared sometime after first showing up on an 1855 survey map.) Its distinction is the juxtaposition of three diverse ecosystems in one area: a noble fir forest, a subalpine desert-like rock garden and a lush meadow. “Marys Peak is frequently referred to as an island in the sky,” explains Jeff Uebel, a retired U.S. Forest Service worker who now volunteers with the Alliance for Recreation and Natural Areas and the Marys Peak Stewardship Group. “You’ve got plants that basically got established there when the climate was more similar to Central Oregon.” Botanists have been climbing the peak since at least 1881 and documenting its unusual plant life.
Key: Noble Fir Forest | Subalpine Desert-like Rock Garden | Meadow | Wildflowers | Old Growth
Marg’s Notes: Blackberry Campground – Mary’s Peak
Back to Condo! Wanted a shower!
Decided to head back to Lincoln City this afternoon for a shower after our hike. Today’s hike was Mary’s Peak. Took a paved but pot holed road to trailhead @ Conners Camp. Started hiking ~9:30. Started out uphill this time! Saw 2 people when we started. Hike thru old growth again. Not many flowers, so Rod didn’t take as many pics! Nice trail. Went all the way to the top. Views were obscured by smoke & marine layer but still pretty. You can drive to the top, so we had our snack at tables in the parking lot. Hiked, mostly downhill back!! Yay! 6.85 miles total. 3h 45min. Back at camp, we had lunch, then packed up & headed to L.C [early return].
[Highway] 101 Burger -> Upset Rod’s tummy ☹.