–submitted by Jamai Schile
Perfect weather for a wonder! A little breezy at the Cross, but trail generally sheltered as we navigated our way from the Ecological Reserve, Cross look out to Mad Dog Bench look out. From the Bench, the group decided the weather was to fine to miss and the housework would wait. We decided to extend the hike by following Cyclops until it linked up with Field of Dreams and the return trail Old M/L bringing us out again onto T-Road and the parking area.
Considering the growing seasons is 2 – 4 weeks behind the annual norm, the Ecological Reserve did not disappoint. We were treated to fawn lilies, shooting stars by the numbers and the first of the chocolate lilies and common camas. No sightings of Nodding Beddarticks, but maybe in a week or two.
Ref Map: Tzouhalem Lookout Loop by Heavy J. Available as geo-referenced pdf.
Following the hike, all but one of our number headed into Cowichan Bay to the Rock Cod Café for an early dinner before we returned home and the chores that awaited.
Total Distance: 12km