Trip Report by Janet Snell

Photos by Janet Snell, John Martin & Caroline Penn

On 30 August and again on 9 September, 2021, two groups of hikers explored different routes to Blue Gentian Lake on Hollyburn Mountain this past month. The goal of both hikes was first and foremost to see the beautiful Blue Gentian flowers in bloom at the small lake of the same name. The first hike ascended from upper West Vancouver using the network of trails that follow the historic logging operations for the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The second group of nine hikers proceeded from the Hollyburn cross-country ski area parking lot, following winter trails and then the Baden-Powell trail to the little lake.

Christine Thuring was an invaluable guide on the first hike as we passed stunning examples of old-growth Douglas Fir trees such as the Hollyburn Fir shown. This tree was spared as the loggers of the time were in pursuit of red cedar for the shake and shingle industry. The hike progressed up along Brothers Creek where other remaining and massive trees lent a quiet majesty to the creek canyon area. 

At expected, at this time of year, many examples of saprophytic growth were seen. Coral root orchids were spotted as they faded from earlier summer colour. An example of Gnome Plant was found, also past its prime. (This interesting plant is the only species in its genus.) The dark and damp coniferous forest is prime habitat for these organisms that feed on organic matter. Many mushrooms were seen including a beautiful example of Coral Fungus.

Also expected were the many types of fall berries, seen on both hikes. Many varieties of blueberries and huckleberries were present though the number of berries varied depending on the location. Perhaps the drought and heat of the summer has affected the berry crop – which many animals depend on. 

Colour was supplied by the vivid red of mountain ash berries and the more hidden Twisted Stalk berries, hanging below the foliage as well as the rich green colour of the many types of mosses. Likewise, the Bunchberry Dogwood was striking in colour and contrast – though many plants were without berries this year. 

At Blue Gentian Lake, lunch provided the time to closely examine the bog plant life. Clusters of Blue Gentians were found alongside clumps of Deer Cabbage, Bog Laurel and Labrador Tea. A close look revealed the tiny Sundews, insectivorous plants with their red dewy insect traps extended. In both hikes, we were rewarded with sun and blue sky while we ate.

Lyn Grants, co-leader and member of Friends of Cypress Provincial Park, was on the look-out for the recent spread of the Blue Gentian plants. They can now be seen further up the mountain on the Baden-Powell trail and even on the trails leading away from West Lake toward the Hollyburn Lodge.

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