Sunny day with highs in the mid-40s. Time to get out and enjoy it before the next storm rolls in just after noon. (The storm is supposed to drop 10-20 inches of snow in the mountains.)
I arrive sometime after 9:30 am; the gate is closed and the road is all mine.
The road is snow packed but icy in some spots especially near the start as it get more sun (thaw and freeze).
It's absolutely beautiful as Sunday's snow still covers the trees and shrubs. Looking like a good 6 inches.
And then wind the blows, there's a little snow storm as the snow falls from the branches.
It's quiet except for the breeze and the creek alongside the road.
In one sunny spot, I find lots of snow "flakes".
As I approach the trail head (1.5miles), I reach the small stream that pretty much runs year around that's along the east side of the road. There I find this incredible ice crystals.
I reach the trail head, strap on my YakTrak and head for the trail. People have been on it so it's easy to follow. I have no plans on going to the end (though I'd like to) because I know my feet are going to get really cold at some point.
I find a moose and deer track as I wind my way to the forest.
The forest is even better than the road. Lots of snow on the pine, aspens
and plants.
Beautiful!
I stop just before the 1st switchback - so stunning!
Great day!
No comments:
Post a Comment