Little Ranger Peak via Ranger Creek — Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023

Air was relatively clear when we left, but as we got closer even The Mountain disappeared in the smoke. We pulled off along 410 with a couple cars and headed up. I could taste the smoke on the tip of my tongue - almost burning plastic-like. It dried our mouths, so we kept hydrated. Trail is in great shape. No obstructions and only a little bit of dust near the junction with Palisades. We saw a group of 5 and a couple with their dog all at the same time and a pair of bikers were up at the junction. We did eventually got used to the smoke smell. As we entered the burn area, we started seeing fireweed, but it was odd as there were patches of dying fireweed with one or two flowering stalks right in the middle. The higher we got, the more the flowers prevailed. Even saw some Aster, Lupine, and even some baneberry. It was great actually seeing some flowers, but they were definitely on their way out. No views today, but a great hike and a nice contrast from last week on Old Si.