August 30, 2020
This trail commences at the gate on the Gibson Pass Road (west end of Strawberry Flats). For the most part the trail is a fire access road.
The trail is level for about .5 km and then gradually starts to climb. At .8km there is a creek, but the remainder of the hike to the lake will be dry.
After crossing under the orange chair, you will come to the start of the switchbacks and a trail sign (2.5 km).
The switchbacks eventually take you north and west almost to the top of the ski hill (4 km).
From this point, the trail heads west and maintains gentle rolling ascents and descents until you reach Poland Lake.
One interesting feature is that the flowers bloom a bit later here than up in the sub-alpine meadows.
During the mid-1940s, several fires occurred in Manning Park.
The results of these burn areas are usually spectacular displays of wildflower meadows and luxuriant growth of berry shrubs.
This is the best place in Manning Park to admire the spreading phlox. Unfortunately, I came late in the season and missed the display.
The trail around the south side of the lake is the fisherman’s route.
The trail around the north side is the regular path and is usually dry.
A wilderness shelter and set of pit toilets are at the far end of the lake.
The return had an unexpected change of weather.
This created the conditions to watch one of my favorite climate phenomena, the lenticular clouds.
Lenticular clouds form when strong, moist winds blow over rough terrains, such as mountains or valleys.
Lenticular clouds indicate windy conditions. Pilots avoid areas where they form, as it might mean for a bumpy ride.
