April 22 - Mueller Park Trail to Elephant Rock

Another sunny 80 degree coming today. That's about 20 degrees above normal! And I need to enjoy it today because tomorrow's high will only be in the 50s.

Heading to Elephant Rock (6255ft elevation) on the Mueller Park Trail. I've been on the trail once during my first Spring 3 years ago. It's a 6.8 miles round trip and around 1100 ft in elevation to Elephant Rock. Most of the elevation is gained at the start of the trail heading up the switchbacks. Once past the switchbacks, the trail follows the contours of the foothills snaking in-n-out through forests and flats until Elephant Rock is reached.

Sunny and 70 degrees when I start around 9:30 crossing the footbridge over the flowing creek. I'm also immediately greeted by my old Spring friend the Glacier Lily. Its the dominant plant all the way to Elephant Rock. In fact, it is basically the only plant in the shady areas except near the Rock where I see a few Spring Beauties and Waterleaf.

I make it through the switchbacks and it opens up to a wonderful view ahead - there's Elephant Rock!

And there's still snow on those rounded peaks in the distance. I turn around for a view towards the valley and the city of Bountiful.

In the open, sunny flats, the Largeleaf and Arrowleaf  Balsamroot are blooming,

as are Groundsel (I think).

Plenty of OregonGrape in bloom too!

In only one section of the flats, I see many many purple blooms of vetch.

I see one Cabbage White early on and go quite a ways when I'm startled by an Anise Swallowtail that flies up right in front of me. (Yes!) Finally, my first Spring butterfly this year! (Commas, Mourning Cloaks don't count as they overwinter and neither do the very common Cabbage White.)

Further along, I see a Painted Lady fly by!

And still further, I see a Mylitta Crescent! Very exciting day so far!!

About a 1/2 mile from the Rock, I start see some snow (just off the trail). The trail is muddy and wet in spots. Here the Glacier Lilies are just poking up through the ground.

I see Moose tracks in the mud.

I finally reach Elephant Rock and get a wonderful view down towards the valley. It's clear; I can see Antelope Island and Stansbury Mts.

I enjoy just the view for a bit before heading down. Here's hoping for more bflies flying. :)

And surprise, my first Sara Orangetip of the year flies by. I also see 2 Sulphers.

I complete the trail and on the way back to my car, I see my first dragonfly of the year. This definitely a Darner and I believe it to be a California Darner (One of the first dragonflies to fly in the Spring.)

I also stop at a small field near my car. I find a few Cabbage White and a very photogenic Mylitta Crescent!

Happy Day!