Celebrate the return of ranunculus glaberrimus, the Inland Northwest’s own sagebrush buttercup. The Dishman Hills Conservancy is once again hosting their yearly, guided “Buttercup Hike” through the Dishman Hills Natural Area in Spokane Valley on Saturday, April 11. The hike starts at Camp Caro (625 S. Sargent Road) at 1 p.m., rain or shine. Hikers are encouraged to dress appropriately and bring water, snacks and weather appropriate hiking gear for the three hour walk. A Spokane area tradition, this year will be the 49th annual Buttercup Hike. Last year about 100 hikers showed up to follow guides into the hills in search of the little yellow flowers that mark the start of the spring wildflower season. Hikers will also get to explore recent changes and improvements to the natural area’s trail system along the way. In addition to an abundance of the hike’s joyous yellow namesake, hikers will no doubt see a splash of grass widows and maybe the demure glacier lily. More info: www.dishmanhills.org. //
