Last Friday, as I drove to my cabin in northern Washington, I chose a route with good fall colors. In the Inland Northwest, this means lots of yellows: Cottonwoods and aspens along the drainages, and aspens mixed with larches higher up.
The larch species are unusual (but not unique) among conifers, because they shed their foliage in the fall. Their contribution to the autumn spectacle is appreciated by all who venture into the chilly mountains this time of year.
Going northwest from Spokane on US 395, the city clutter gradually gives way to scenic countryside. Much of the route runs through valleys with rolling mountains on either side. Beyond the towns of Colville and Kettle Falls, State Highway 20 splits off and winds its way into the higher terrain. About halfway between Kettle Falls and Republic is Sherman Pass, slightly more than a mile high at 5,587 feet. East of the summit is a scenic vista that is almost always worthy of a stop. When the larches (commonly called tamaracks) are in full color, a long stop is in order.
The Daily Bucket is a regular feature of the Backyard Science group. It is a place to note any observations you have made of the world around you. Insects, weather, meteorites, climate, birds and/or flowers. All are worthy additions to the bucket. Please let us know what is going on around you in a comment. Include, as close as is comfortable for you, where you are located. Each note is a record that we can refer to in the future as we try to understand the patterns that are quietly unwinding around us.
Upon my arrival last Friday, there was little to see except clouds. Fortunately they moved quickly. The next three pictures were taken within a span of eight minutes, as the tallest peak (which I believe to be 7,103’ Snow Peak) came into view.
To the left of the snowy peak, more of the forested mountainsides came into view. As the clouds/fog rolled by, the scene changed constantly.
Now it’s your turn. As always, your observations, questions and photos are appreciated.
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