April 20 - Desolation Trail (Millcreek Canyon)

Hiking the Desolation Trail to Salt Lake Overlook today after work. It's a beautiful sunny day with temps in the low 70s.

It's been about 2 weeks since I've been here, I'm interested in how much snow is left and what flowers are now blooming.

As I head up the trail, I have lots of company (of the flowering kind). The Yellow Glacier Lilies, which hadn't even started to bloom 2 weeks ago, are very prolific along the bottom parts of trail. In fact, some are even past bloom. All the way up the trail to the overlook, there are Lilies. All in various states of bloom or bud. Of course, the higher up and shadier, the more likely to see ones with buds.

Second on the list of blooms are the Spring Beauties. Again, all the way along the trail. Not as nearly as prolific as Lilies but they definitely can't be missed. (Even in parts of the forest, they are blooming.)

And finally, the buttercups. There are only a couple of patches them - but always vibrant.

I do find a couple of Yellowbells and one yellow violet.

I also find what I believe is a Chocolate Lily plant. I found one along the trail last year - it's so delicate my photos were blurry. I need to remember where this single plant is located so I can check on it next time.

To my surprise, I find more Steer's Heads! (yea!) The patches were under snow last time I was here. I see them in 4-5 different spots.

And speaking of the snow, it's basically all gone. There are just two ~100ft stretches of snow-packed trail and a couple 30 footers.

Still very quiet - no birds or squirrels chirping.

But I did see a Comma! A bright orange flying flash ahead on the trail. Fortunately, he stops so I can get a good look.

Before the overlook, Grandeur Peak looks pretty clear now. Might have to give it a try again.

The overlook has an evening hazy view of the valley. To the south along the foothills, still a bunch of snow.

I head up and follow the trail as last time. I see a couple of moths - an orange one and the dark moth w/ white spots (same as before).

I check on the trail as it goes behind the hill; looks pretty clear at least this part. Need to get here earlier so I can follow where it goes.

After a quick rest at the overlook (which I had all to myself), it's time to head back.

Awesome day!