Heading up to Twin Lakes again today with the goal walking the length of the lake.
Beautiful morning! It's sunny with temps in the 60s and only heading for highs in the low 80s (and possible isolated storms in the PM).
I'm out of the house a little after 7am; just trying to avoid the massive crowds in the canyons today.
Many of the trail heads are already incredibly crowded already as I drive past.
There's plenty of room in the Silver Lake parking (thankfully).
I head out in a clockwise direction towards the Twin Lakes Trail head.
Crossing the foot bridge I look for the swirling fish but they are no longer there. (I found out last week that the swirling fish were just released into the water (stocking) and were probably just confused.)
The mountains and the lake look awesome this morning. - as always!
And I see my 1st Chipmunk of the day!
I reach the trail head and start up. Bluebells, MeadowRue and Cinquefoil are starting to bloom.
Before I know it, I've reached the switchback. I listen and look for Pika but seen none.
Time to start up the hill. Not much has changed in a week other than the plants are larger and I find more Bluebells and one Paintbrush in bloom!!
A bit farther up I get a bit surprise when a Long-tailed (with the yellow belly) weasel is running around!
It's the 2nd one I've seen on this trail. (I've also seen one at the pay station at Antelope Island.)
As I approach the dam, I hear water rushing. Sure enough, there's water coming thru the dam's spill ways - actually more like rushing thru.
On the other side, it's so much different from a week ago with the lake was pretty much still iced over.
There's not much beach left anymore.
And there's are tons of tiny fish along the lakes shores. (I find them all the way to the opposite side of the lake.)
I make my way to the trail and start down along the lake.
Along the way, I pass a very talkative Hairy Woodpecker.
Half way there!!
Reached the 2nd lake!
I finally reach the opposite of the lake. I find a boulder and take a rest.
It's just me and a guy fly fishing. It's wonderfully quiet except the small waterfall on the side of the lake flowing.
After a bit, it's time to start back. As I get started, there 4 fighter jets that pass over. Always cool to see!
On the way, I see one Sheridan's Hairstreak and one Two Banded Skipper both flying together.
When I get back,
I decide to head up to "my perch". Looking for a view from above and I also want to check out the trail conditions coming up from Lake Solitude.
Well, the trail condition looks clear - yea!
I have to cross a snow field to get to my "perch" but I make it!
Time to head down.
On my way down, I hear lots of police sirens. When I get to the bottom I realize the sirens are for the Brighton 4th of July parade. I have to watch a bit of it.
Great day! Happy Independence Day!
