Sheep Lake is along the Pacific Crest Trail just outside of Mount Rainier NP. A small group of WBA members hiked to the lake through flower meadows and forest for this “flash” field trip at the end of the season. The forecast was for rain the next day, but we were greeted with sun and warm temperatures upon arrival. There were Hydaspe and Mormon Fritillaries, Anna’s and Boisduval Blues, and Purplish and Mariposa Coppers along the long stretch of trail before we entered forest and climbed to the lake. Parnassians greeted us in the meadows that opened in the for-

est. After lunch in the lake basin, we fanned out into the surrounding meadows. Blues were puddling. There is an odd and even year population of the biennial Great Arctic. Although worn, they were still flying. Of special note were a Persius Duskywing, a beautiful Milbert’s Tortoiseshell and many Arctic Fritillaries, always a treat to see. We left as the wind was picking up and rain clouds were moving in, but feeling quite satisfied with our day. A California Tortoiseshell bid us goodbye at the toilets in the parking lot, bringing our species count up to 19!

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