Heading up Big Cottonwood Canyon to see what the snow situations is at the mid-elevations (7000-8000 feet). I'm honestly expecting snow in spots, especially the forested areas, but I'm thinking the big meadow (my destination) might just be clear. I'll soon find out.
Beautiful morning with the sun shining bright.
The canyon is greening up but there is definitely a lot of snow in the higher elevations.
I arrive at the Mill D parking with only a couple of cars parked (7200ft). The ground is snow free and the creek is running fast from the snow melt.
It's still early season as the only flowers I see in bloom are a few Buttercups.
The ducks are here; I walk by 4 male Mallards standing on the road.
And the ground squirrels are out.
In the wooded sections, there's patchy deep snow still.
Mt Reynolds is still very snowy and sticks out against the blue sky.
I reach the actual trail head, cross the creek
and start the uphill trek. The trail (a dirt road) is a mix of dry, wet, muddy and snow-packed.
The creek next to the trail slowing fast.
About 1/2 up in a clearing a bird call catching my attention. It's a pretty stunning bird; a Macgilivray's Warbler I believe. First time I've seen one but they do breed here in Utah. Cool!
The snow increases the higher I climb.
Despite the snow, I'm still hoping that the meadow might be clear; it's getting full sun after all.
Unfortunately, when I reach the meadow; there's still 3-4 feet still on the trail. But it sure looks great! (Winter still on the last day of May - crazy!)
As I continue up,
I spot another interesting bird; an Audubon's Warbler I believe. Another first for me and this one breeds here as well.
I reach the flat spot (8220ft) and decide it's time to turn around -- I had my fill of the snow for the day.
Time to start down.
I find one more bird - unfortunately I have no guesses on this one.
Since it's warmed up, I'm hoping to see some overwinterers (Mourning Cloaks, Commas). And I do see one Mourning Cloak (yea).
Good hike!
