Royal Basin,  Olympic National Park,  September 11, 2011     page 26 / 46

I heard more noise from above. A couple of hikers worked their way down the snow and rock, from a narrow pass on the eastern ridge of Mt Deception. They were traveling light, presumably having camped at Royal Lake. I spoke briefly with one of the fellows who explained that this was his son's first backpacking trip. With a visit to Royal Basin, I would expect the younger hiker to be hooked for life!

The goat pair continued down the hill, heading toward us. I kept snapping photos.