Cool morning; it's in the upper 40s when I wake. As I start my drive to the trail head, it's in the upper 50s and the sun is rising. The trees are starting to change in the lower part of Big Cottonwood; mainly the Maples with bursts of orange/red. But its sporadic.
The trail head is mid canyon. The aspen here are just starting to change but again the non-aspen trees are somewhat colorful.
Only a couple of cars in the lot so it should be a quiet trip.
The trail is in the shade as it parallels Big Cottonwood Canyon and again as it turns up the Mill D fork. There are chipmunks/squirrels making noises and moving around. The flowers are all but gone except patches of purple asters and a few yellow flowers. Ground vegetation is yellow/brown.
Keeping my eyes scanning for moose or deer but even when I reach the stream (and after) no such luck today.
Nearing the intersection of the Dog Lake/Desolation Lakes trails, the tree colors really haven't started to move. (Another thing that's late this year.)
Because of that, I decide to head the extra 0.6 miles (and a steep hill) to Dog Lake. As I head up, nothing moving but those chipmunks and squirrels.
I reach the lake
and find a lady with her dog already at the lake. The dog is retrieving a tennis ball from the lake. They came from Millcreek Canyon as dogs are allowed on those trails (but not on the Big Cottonwood ones).
I work my way around the lake clockwise and find a log on the other side for a quick rest. There are 3 female mallard ducks nearby. Two of them start my way; I'm assuming for a snack because I'm sure they get fed regularly from hikers/families.
But not from me. :) They graze in front of me before heading into the water for a swim.
Another lady/dog arrive at the lake with a stick and play catch into the water. They soon leave and so do I heading around the rest of the lake.
Before heading down. On the way down, I hear something moving thru the forest; it's a deer!
On the rest of the way down, it's sunnier and I find a Frit (only one).
Good day!
