May 6 - Mill D South to the Meadow (Big Cottonwood Canyon)

 Mostly sunny day with temps near 70 degrees.

Heading up to check out the snow on the Mill D South trail towards the Cardiff Mine.

I arrive after 8:30. There are a few cars in the lot and it's in mid-40s.

A lot of snow has melted in the sunny spots but the spots that receive less sun have at least 3 feet.

There is a guy fly fishing not far from the road. And one Mallard (male) in the creek.

I see/hear Ground Squirrels at the start but they disappear because of the snow.

Lots of birds chirping too and I spot a small patch of buttercups.

The road is clear until the start of the dirt road where there are patches of packed snow/ice.

Passing Kessler Peak...

When I reach the trail, on go the micro-spikes.

The creek is flowing but not strongly yet.

Time to start the uphill climb. The trail is snow-covered but there are some open spots.

Going is slow as I'm sinking maybe an inch with each step.

The creek next to the road is flowing pretty good. Love the snow tunnels on the creek; they're there every year. Love the sound of the running water too.

At one point, I saw following coyote tracks. They look fresh as I can clearly see the claws. I follow them for quite some time.

In one spot, along with the coyote tracks, is another fresh track - maybe raccoon.

Before long I'm approaching the meadow. 

There's a good 3 feet of snow on the road still!

And some coyote poop too!

I continue to my normal turn-around a spot where the trail flattens just a bit. As I approach, the snow is getting softer since its been in the sun for awhile now.

My last step, I was up to mid-calf in snow. Definitely, stopping here!!

I go to move to sit on a boulder on the side of the trail and end up knee deep. Lots of snow!

I enjoy the sun light and the quiet for a bit before heading back down.

Finally got one little bird with an awesome "voice".


And I did see the flying orange flash of a butterfly - assuming a Comma!!

Also saw a Ground Squirrel

and a Flicker!!

Several more guys fishing now and 3 male Mallards in the creek.

Good day!

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