The Old Fort Boise section was mostly open land, but I was in shock from all that sunlight so I checked out the Cottonwood trailhead to try to find some shade.
The creek was nice but I did weave in and out of the treed area to enjoy those balsamroot flowers some more.
In the shade I found new blossoms to investigate.
Out at the Old State Penitentiary there is also a trailhead which was quite popular on Monday afternoon.
Most folks took the Table Rock trail upward but I veered off onto the less used State Pen spur which eventually met up with Table Rock trail again.
After going up for about a mile I decided to spare my knees any further abuse. My doctor just put me on a new anti-inflammatory (meloxicam) for what is most likely arthritis in my knees and hands that is working great, but there is no need to ruin a trip by instigating a flare up!
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| The cross at the summit is illuminated at night |
The Table Rock Loop intersection was a level plateau below the summit and I ventured out onto it for awhile before heading back for the dreaded downhill knee-abusing slog to the parking area.
It was all worth it when I spotted the Lupine growing on the hillside.
Catching a Magpie in flight was a good reward too.
Lichens flourished on the rock outcroppings, making a good backdrop for the vegetation.
Lucky for me you don't need to go all the way to the top to enjoy the climb!
Never know you got wild lupins
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