I finally took that weekend hike up to the ridge you recommended last month. The trail was pretty steep in the first mile, but once you get past the switchbacks, it opens up into this beautiful meadow with wildflowers everywhere. I saw a family of deer grazing about fifty yards off the trail, and they didn't seem bothered by people at all. The summit was incredible, the view stretched for miles in every direction. I brought a small picnic and just sat there for almost an hour taking it all in. The weather was perfect, not too hot, and there was a light breeze that kept the bugs away. I definitely want to go back in autumn when the leaves change color. Thanks for the suggestion, it was exactly what I needed. Let me know if you have any other spots like that around here.

I also stopped at the ranger station on the way down and picked up a map of the longer loop trail. It looks like it connects to a couple of other peaks if you're up for a full day hike. Might be worth trying together sometime if you're free on a weekend. The ranger mentioned that the wildlife viewing is best early in the morning, so we could start at dawn. I'm thinking about getting a pair of better hiking boots before then though, my current ones are pretty worn out and I felt every rock on the descent.