July 2 - Twin Lakes Loop (Big Cottonwood Canyon)

 Sunny day with highs in the 90s.

Braving the canyon on a Saturday to hike up to Twin Lakes this morning.

When I arrive just after 7:30 am, the parking lot had about 6 spots left.

I start around the lake. Lots of green vegetation but just a few Geraniums.

The water levels are still high touching the foot bridge.

There is a female Mallard on the bridge and a Mom Mallard with a bunch babies in the water near bridge. So cute!


I continue on around Silver Lake

Lots of chipmunks this morning. And then towards Lake Solitude. Again lots of green but the only flowers were Bluebells.

I do scare a doe - actually she scared me as she crossed the trail in front of me. She didn't go too far from the trail.


I reach Lake Solitude - no ducks today.

I work my way around the lake and I start up the switchbacks. Quite a few dragonflies zooming around.


Along the 2 switchback, I stop for a Western Swallowtail. (The 1st of 4 today.)

Farther up, I stop for a beautiful moth -- very colorful on the upper wings.

I'm not dogging it today -- good climb - I'm happy.

I reach the top and continue on to my "perch" for a break. Only a little snow left in the mountains.

Time to head down to the lake for a quit stop.

Before continuing down to the switchback. On the way, I see an Orangetip.

Back on the switchback and looking down on Silver Lake.


Along the switchback, I see another Orangetip.

But no Pika or Marmots - Pika appear to be scarce this summer - at least so far.

Awesome day!

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