June 30 - Mirror Lake

Mostly sunny day with highs in the mid-80s.

Heading up the Mirror Lake Highway to check things out. The Road just opened last week so it could be interesting (or not). I'm also thinking of hiking out to Ruth Lake and doing some butterflying at Christmas Meadows.

The drive was easy and quick. Met some cows alongside the road but no deer. A Marmot running across the road was the deer replacement this morning.

I stop a Provo River Falls. It's a nice Falls but I've seen it so much higher.

And I stop at the Bald Mt Overlook (10,700+ ft). 

I thought there'd be more snow but it still looked great!

I'm passing lots of Marsh Marigolds and Avalanche Lilies (and some pink snow)!

I decide to go to Mirror Lake 1st. Road was clear and there were a few cars in the lot. It's sunny with temps in the mid-40s but the wind is very cold so a jacket goes on.

With the wind, the lake is not a mirror.

Lots of water in the lake too!

But as always, wonderful view!

As I go around the lake, I get to see the Marsh Marigolds
Avalanche Lilies
Spring Beauties, Buttercups (there's only a few of these) up close.

Oh yea, the pussywillows are in fuzz. And I see one Bluebell plant that is in bud.

Lots of small waterfalls as the water is rushing down from the higher elevations.

I reach the other side with views of Bald and Reid Mts.
There are plenty of fishermen over on this side. And I see a few trout on my own swimming in the water.

Oh, I find a mushroom!

And one male Mallard swimming on the lake.

I was hoping to see some Commas or Tortoiseshells but no luck.

It was a slow hike with my foot but I made it around without problems.

And lots more people around the lake as I return.

Good walk - now onto part 2.

I continue to drive down Mirror Lake Hwy. I think about stopping at Pass Lake Trailhead = for butterflies of course -- but continue on.

I do stop at the Highline Trail for a look see - find some pink snow

And I sure wish it was sunny :(




Then a stop a Ruth Lake. Should I or not -- I decide not as my foot still hurts.

Moving onto Christmas Meadow for some butterflying (hopefully).

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