Tag Archives: Coca Sanchez

Flower Families of Mt. Ellinor

Eriophyllum lanatum (Oregon Sunshine)

On July, 17, 2019, the Natural History Society joined for a summer hike up rocky Mt. Ellinor. We were fortunate that botanist Coca Sanchez led us on her annual wildflower walk for the Natural History Society. She took us up a steep mountain to seek endemic wildflowers. Coca also discussed some of our most common flower families, and pointed out blooming species.

 

Chamaenerion angustifolium (Fireweed), Eriophyllum lanatum (Oregon Sunshine), Achillea millefolium (Yarrow)

Mt. Ellinor is known for its wildflower meadows and spectacular views from rocky ridges. We hiked from the upper trailhead to the summit for views of Lake Cushman and the surrounding Olympic peaks.

Eileen at JLTnatural@saveland.org arranged meeting time and place, what to bring, and additional information.

A Summer Hike

Members of the Natural History Society joined for a summer hike on July 11, 2017 to Hurricane Ridge with native plant buffs, Coca Sanchez and Dana Ecelberger. Coca and Dana are local landscapers, Rare Care volunteers, and graduates of the Land Trust’s first Northwest Naturalist course.

We carpooled from Port Townsend to Hurricane Ridge. From there we hiked the Roaring Winds/Obstruction Point Trail, a 6.4-mile round-trip hike with 1,400 feet of elevation gain. Dogs were not allowed, per the National Park rules.

Obstruction Point Trail is the highest trail in the Park, passing through alpine country and great viewsheds. We expected to see early season wildflowers, such as Glacier Lily, Phlox, Frittilarias, and orchids.

We recommended: layers for temperature fluctuations, plenty of food and water, field guides, binoculars, hand lenses, hiking boots, hats, and hiking poles. A group of 12 or less was preferred, but we did not turn anyone away.

Lee at JLTnatural@saveland.org provided details.