July 4 - Mormon Trail

 Sunny, hot day near 100 degrees forecast.

Heading out early to the Mormon Trail to beat the heat. I arrive around 7:30. I know the walk out to the 3 mile walk (at least until I reach the meadow) will be in the shade and without butterflies but I'll catch them on my return.

The patchwork trail thru the woods is open now - I found out last week. No more steep hill climbing. It's a maze thru the woods, over boards and boardwalk. Sure wish my $5 parking fee will clean this trail entrance up soon.

Yes, the trail is in the shade but it's still an awesome walk. The Phlox is in bloom now.

And thistle is very close.

As I near the meadow, there's some life with the Relict Frits (saw over 20 today)!!

When I cross the crooked boardwalk before the meadow, there is an explosion of flowers and butterflies including N. Checkerspots, Field Crescents, Relict Frits and Lilac Bordered Copper.

On the other side, I add a Cabbage White.

I also find 2 cool Mushrooms.

As I continue I find:

2-tailed Swallowtails

and Western Swallowtails - they seem to be doing quite well this year

Northern Cloudywing

W. Admiral

Ringlet

Boisduval's Blue


N. Crescent

and Common Checkered Skipper.

It's well after the dam that I see my first Callipe Frit

and Mormon Frit of the year. Yea!

And I can't forget that there is the perfect patch of White Columbine.

I spot at the 3 mile marker and start my way better.

Walking thru lots of orange flyers on my return.

I also add Parnassian, Mustard White, and a Pale Swallowtail.

And with a Cabbage White, is a Mourning Cloak caterpillar!! Two for one shot!

When I reach the pond, there looks like something large was either laying down or at least, using the pond - the grasses are all matted down.

Also, there are W Admirals on the pond scum quenching their thirst.

And Common Whitetail dragonflies were flying today.

Just before I entered the maze again, I spot a couple Purplish Coppers


and surprise, my 1st Small Wood Nymph of the year!

Awesome day!

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