I need something different today so I'm heading up into the Uintas to do some high elevation hiking. My goal is to hike up to Lofty Lakes. But I'm nervous as that's the hike I broke my foot on last summer (and I've also sprained my ankle twice before on that same hike). That hike has definitely has my number.
On the drive up, I see two deer in a field and one along the road just out of Kamas.
And farther down the road, I just miss hitting a Grouse trying to cross the road.
By the time I get there, Lofty Loop is out of the running and it's a multiple small hike day.
My first stop is the Provo River Falls and boy, there's still a lot of water coming over the falls. Still living the results of an awesome snow year.
I try to make the first stop Fehr Lake but there's a huge hole when I try to turn so onto the next stop: Mirror Lake.
It's sunny and in the 40s here; oh, and it's windy - no "mirror" lake today.
As I start around the lake in the clockwise direction, the boardwalks are still a bit slippery from a light frost.
There are a few flowers in bloom including white Yarrow and a daisy looking flower.
There's also some purple asters blooming.
And wow! Harebell is blooming. So lovely with the morning dew!!
There's quite a few folks on the lake in kayaks and other floating devices fishing; and they're along the shore as well.
I also see one trout near the edge of the lake.
I just loop around the lake enjoying the views.
Then it's onto Ruth Lake. There a good number of cars here already; probably just backcountry campers.
Time to head up the 1 mile trail to Ruth Lake.
I reach the first meadow
and then a lake. Love the view of Peak on the opposite side.
And then it's Ruth Lake!
Find a few Gentian still blooming!
Many dragonflies zipping around - wish I could get a photo. I do finally catch up with a mated pair!
I walk all the way to the other side where there are still lily pads in bloom with their yellow flowers.
It's time to start back to the trail head.
It's just before 11 am, I'm thinking of trying Fehr Lake again but decide to pull into the Pass Lake parking. This is the Lofty Loop trail head as well. I'm not interested in hiking up there; just along the south trail along Reid Meadows to see if there might be some butterflies flying.
As I start, I quickly find a Copper flying.
Farther down, I find a few Frits.
I reach the meadow with Bald Mt and Reids Peak.
Good day!
