On July 2nd, as we drove toward the trailhead, one of us spotted a bear along the road and then a deer! Four of us started the steady climb in the shade and pleasant temperature. Then we arrived at the first viewpoint of the Fraser Valley, and started walking along the ridge which is the best part of the hike: we were treated with a view of the mountains and some lovely wildflowers. I suggested we continue on to Mt.Thurston as Elk Mtn felt like a short hike but we decided to stay with the original plan and leisurely basked in the sun and ate our lunch on top of Elk Mountain. The way down was steep and we took our time. Why rush? It was a beautiful day with a cool group.