Stalking the Elusive Poppy, July 19, 10:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Sawtooth National Recreation Area

The Wood River Chapter of the Idaho Native Plant Society will host a botanical survey of the area around Baker Lake in hopes of documenting a rare poppy. Participants should plan to leave Hailey Park and Ride at 8:30 a.m., Lake Creek parking lot at 9:30 a.m. or Baker Lake Trailhead at 10:15 a.m.. Carpooling will be encouraged and, please, no dogs.

“This sweet little poppy is the size of your thumb,” commented board member Kristin Fletcher, “It occurs in small, isolated populations on the rugged terrain of high peaks from the Yukon, south into the Rocky Mountains but was spotted a couple of years ago at Baker Lake. We will be joined by top Idaho botanists in the hopes of relocating it in the name of science. Of course, because populations are so small and spread apart, this population could be eliminated forever by a thoughtless hiker casually picking the flowers.”

The hike is deemed medium difficult primarily because of the high elevation (8,000-9,000 feet) and uneven footing. Bring hiking poles, if you use them. The hike up will focus on arriving at Baker Lake with plenty of time to survey for the poppy. A slower descent will allow everyone to enjoy this season’s abundantly beautiful wildflower display. This will be an all day, 3.4-mile round trip hike. Participants should expect to be back at the trailhead about 3:30 p.m..