July 22 - Lake Mary, Martha and Catherine (Big Cottonwood Canyon)

 Another 100 degree day in the forecast.

I'm up early and heading up BCC to hike up to Catherine's Pass via Lake Mary, Martha, and  Catherine. First time I've done this hike this year.

I arrive at the trail head just after 7am. Not too many folks around except construction folks.

I gear up and start up the trail.

Tons of flowers blooming right now - Lupine, Bluebells, Paintbrush, Horsemint, Geraniums, Columbine, etc. So beautiful even though there is no sun.

There are some Pink Monkeyflowers in a water spot about 1/2 way up.

Steady climb but my legs are pretty heavy this morning for some reason. But before I know it I arrive at Lake Mary.

Definitely don't want to stand still too long because the mosquitoes will get you.

I continue around the lake and onto Lake Martha - no moose today.

Then it's into the woods where there are Heart-leafed Arnica and more Bluebells (and Asters) blooming.

On the next switchback, I'm out in the open again with lots of flowers.

Soon I'm very near to Lake Catherine but stop for the view towards Lake Martha and Mary.

And the Parry's Primrose.

Onto Lake Catherine. Stunning lake, stunning flowers and again don't stop too long as I walk past the lake.

It's at this point I decide not to go to Catherine's Pass. It's cloudy and the view won't be all that awesome and my legs are just too tired to get there and of course, above to Sunset Pass. Another day, it's come.

So it's time to head down.

Some folks point out a Marmot that is resting on a rock (exciting).

Then it's downhill.

There's a Stellar's Jay at Lake Mary.

And the Brown Coneflowers are now blooming.

Good day!