Sunny but cool morning. And I'm excited for this hike. I've read that they carved a new less rocky, less steep up hill trek aside the mountain to the lake and I like adventures.
When I arrive there are no cars parked (yea!). I reach the trail head and yes, there are 2 trails. The old steep, rocky uphill and one to the left which is supposed to be easier. Time to checkout the "easier" one.
The aspen are turning yellow as I make my way up to the lake but still not at peak.
The trail is nice; no rocks, no tree stumps. Definitely a better trail.
The trail pops out on the west side of the meadow.
There are no ground squirrels out; perhaps they're hibernating already.
I make my way thru the aspens to Willow Lake. When I reach it, I take my time looking around hoping to find moose. But no luck :(
There are a few ducks and a decent Fall reflection in the lake.
I work my way to the west and over to the opposite side of the lake where I find a rock and take a break.
One female Mallard waddles over to me looking for snacks; sorry.
I move on slowly walking along the lake
before heading back into the forest.
Still no deer and no moose.
As I get closer to my starting point, I see and hear more people arriving.
I take the older, steeper trail on the way down. Quite a few coming up it so the word is not out about the better trail. I imagine next year once they get a new sign at the bottom, the old trail will be blocked off and along to regenerate.
Good day!
