Scorpion Mountain via Johnson Ridge — Wednesday, Jul. 26, 2017

The hills are alive! Well graded road to trailhead, we were first to arrive at 8am. Soft, warm sun dappled friendly forest draped with Old Man's Beard ascends to the ridge. Some rocks and toe grabbing roots but generally an unbelievably well worn trail with peek a boo views eventually opening up to the splendor of Glacier Peak all the way around to Rainier and the tips of the Enchantments! You will not be disappointed if you enjoy views and vast emerald grassy hillsides chock full of Tiger Lily's, Lupine, Paintbrush, Columbine and Phlox just to name a few! The curving trail up to the summit of Scorpion is a dream! Wind back down to sparkling Joan Lake and do take a quick swim- we did despite the SWARMS of mosquitos and flies. Grin and bear it as it's the beauty you'll remember not the bites! We saw 12 people on this 9.1 mile RT delight.