Although hot weather prevailed, we had a breeze and mid-afternoon cloudiness to keep us cool. We started the hike at the Sterling Forest Information Center, a beautiful facility where the staff helped us with last minute updates on trail conditions and a warning that a bear had been sighted. We took the Sterling Lake loop and then headed up the valley trail to Sterling Ridge. Contrary to reports, our only sightings of wildlife were of the reptile and amphibian sort. The lake was alive with fish and water snakes, and we passed many vernal pools, full of frogs and tadpoles. And everywhere else, snakes, toads and salamanders were abundant. Erik Z. -- our Snake Master -- was in his glory! The ridge gave us some beautiful views and the trail was surrounded by blueberry bushes, honeysuckle, mountain laurel, flowers of all kinds, and majestic trees. When we arrived at the Fire Tower, some of the bravest climbed up and took in panoramic views of the forest. We then followed the Fire Tower Trail back down to the lake. We passed some abandoned foundry buildings, remnants of iron mining and forging in the area. After finishing the lake loop, we pit-stopped at the center and then headed home. -- Ellen Beltran, Troop Committee Member, and Hike Guide.