As I drive up the canyon, the south facing slopes are clear as expected but the north facing slope still have a bunch of snow. I guess I should expect this as we've been below normal for temperatures all year so far.
I roll up to the Desolation TH - way too much snow. I'm sure it's a packed trail but perhaps in a week. I turn around and head back to Rattlesnake Gulch TH.
When I arrive there are only 2 cars in the parking area. Trail is clear - at least at the bottom part. So I head up.
There are sections of the trail that are still packed snow/ice but there's open ground to skirt around them.
The birds are singing this morning. I hear Chukkars, Chickadees, Magpies and Stellar Jays (even see a Jay).
When I reach the switchbacks, I run into more packed snow especially the last short steep climb to the start of the Pipeline trail. Boy, do I wish I brought my YakTrak for the way down.
But on flatter turf now with some great views.
As I walk, I'm searching for Spring plants but they either still underground or just peaking up. The oaks, of course, are not with buds yet either.
But there are plenty of shells.
Still wonder how so many got here.
At one point, I look up and surprise, I find 3 deer! Nice!
I continue along until I reach the Pipeline Overlook of Salt Lake. Pretty gloomy day.
But I can still see Antelope Island out in the distance.
Time to head back.
On the way, I find an ornament (cute) and a nice view of Grandeur Peak.
(Not sure how I missed the ornament the first time; I found deer 100+ feet above, think I could find an ornament on the edge of the trail. Oh well!)
Good day!
