After setting up camp at Big Pines CG in Yakima Canyon, we had time for a short hike so drove to the Umtanum Recreation Area to meander along Umtanum Creek. Two groups of 2 people in each were leaving when we arrived at the parking lot and we met no other hikers while we were in the area. There was an on and off again drizzle which made the colors in the canyon prettier and more saturated. Bugs were present in some areas, but they were not the biting kind!
Yellow bitter brush, fading lupine, sticky geranium, popcorn flowers, iris, chokecherry, buckwheat, larkspur and moss campion were some of the flowers seen. We did not hear or see many birds. A Bewick's wren and Steller's Jay were the only birds seen.
Comments
Unfortunately, the white flower is on Yakima County's noxious weed list (presumably it's a noxious weed in Kittitas Co. as well). It's Lepidium draba (heart-podded hoarycress), a mustard. I like your photos. Where can I see more? Do you ever post photos to the Washington Native Plant Society Facebook page? https://www.facebook.com/groups/1772247976391253/
Posted by:
park1234 on May 21, 2019 07:48 AM
Thank you for the flower ID and for liking our photos! I was wondering if it was a noxious weed as we saw it in many areas as we were driving to other hikes in the area. There was a lot in some areas of Fort Simcoe SP and on the drive there. We only post photos on our WTA trip reports which can be found under Bob and Barb in advanced options. I will look at the Washington Native Plant Society Facebook page later today. Thank you again! Barb
Posted by:
Bob and Barb on May 22, 2019 08:18 AM