Mountain Goats

Today’s hike on the Elwha Trail (a few miles from Hurricane Ridge Visitor’s Center/Olympic National Park) was very exciting—we ran into nine mountain goats.  Not native to the Olympic Peninsula, the goat herds are expanding and creating a bit of havoc.  The males can be very aggressive and a hiker was killed last year not too far from our trail.  We came upon this group unexpectedly and took as many photos as possible.  When they started moving towards us, we gave them a wide berth and headed out.  They are beautiful animals and their long white coats really stand out in the alpine meadows.

Another treat was a large marmot.  He looked very ancient and unafraid of our picture taking.  I think he posed for us about 20 minutes.

Fridays are shaping up to be the weekly hiking day.  I have a regular group of fun gals to hike with.  Besides looking at the gorgeous scenery, we talk and laugh the whole time. 

(Photos courtesy of Susan Hamman and Barbara Brooner – two hiking buddies who love to take pictures and are very good at taking them.)