Recreation blooms on the bluffs

Wildflowers are bursting into their spring bloom in the region's lowlands. The next few weeks are prime time for golden arrowleaf balsamroot flowers and wedding-white serviceberry blossoms to greet the throngs of hikers, bikers, runners and dog walkers on the 23 miles of trails along the South Hill bluff between High Drive and Hangman Creek. Much of the crowd shows up after work hours and packs in their exercise before sometimes stunning sunsets bring the evening to a close. Outdoors editor Rich Landers often is there, with his hiking boots and camera.

Section:Gallery

Sun., May 6, 2012

Arrowleaf Balsamroot is in full bloom in mid April along the trails at the South Hill Bluffs.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
Runners share the trails with hikers and mountain bikers before sunset at the South Hill Bluffs.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
A dog is getting a great workout as she followers her owner on an evening run at the South Hill Bluffs.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
Mountain bikers share the trails with hikers and runners before sunset at the South Hill Bluffs.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
Mountain bikers share the trails with hikers and runners before sunset at the South Hill Bluffs.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
Hikers of all ages were getting exercise after work at the South Hill Bluffs.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
A runner gets in his weekday evening workout at the South Hill Bluffs.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
The sun sets behind the arrowleaf balsamroots on a busy recreational day at the South Hill Bluffs.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
South Hill Bluff Trails map
Dog walking is popular on the South Hill bluff trails.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
Mountain biking is popular on the South Hill bluff trails.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review
A dish-shaped basalt boulder is maintained as a watering bowl for dogs and wildlife on the South Hill bluff trails.

Rich Landers The Spokesman-Review