Originally published at: Satinflower Showtime Rehearsal on Mt Wells – Alpine Club of Canada Vancouver Island Section
The date for this hike is changed - it is now Saturday, Mar 22nd: 9:00 am - 3:00(ish).
This is a shorter hike, but is geared for exploration and taking some time to enjoy the display of Satinflowers that are starting to show off on Mt. Wells. The day is supposed to be a bit wet, so something shorter might not be a bad idea!
The hike is approximately 6km long with ~500m elevation gain. The route has lots of short up-and-downs – some of them steep and possibly slippery, and a few places where hands on rock may be needed. We will do a bit of off-piste exploration, looking for Satinflowers, Red Currant, Shooting Star, Rusty-haired Saxifrage, Early Saxifrage, and Fawn Lily. Some minor bushwhacking and route-finding will no doubt be part of the day.
We will go up to the top of Wells via the usual route from the Mt Wells parking lot, then down through some of the upper meadows (yes, we WILL be looking for those elusive White Satinflowers), then down some of the southern slopes towards Flatty Hill. From here the goal is to head over toward a high point look out some call “East Mt Wells”. From here we will decide if we want to explore some of the newly opened trails above the Westshore Parkway, or head directly back.
This hike will go rain or shine, but if the weather is particularly bad we will adjust the route accordingly for a safe, comfortable, fun (and wildflower)-filled day.
Required gear: hiking boots with good ankle support, extra layers, rain gear, sun hat, water/hot drink, lunch, snacks, 10 essentials. Hiking poles are strongly recommended.
Meet at the Mt Wells Trailhead parking lot at 8:50 am. (Location on Google Maps). Carpooling is encouraged.
No dogs please.
Leader: Mary Sanseverino
RSVP to Mary at msanseve@gmail.com
(maximum 10 participants)