March 4 - Bryce Canyon, Lower Calf Creek

 I've finally escaped my Covid alcratraz and have headed south to Bryce Canyon on Wednesday night. My goal is to hike in Capitol Reef but there's snow in the forecast; can't hike there if there's snow on the slickrock.

So I'm heading to Bryce as I've always wanted to see snow there -- now there may be fresh white stuff.

The drive was uneventful; I did see a group of at least 10 deer in the sagebrush as I drove by on Hwy 89.

And by the time I get to the Ruby Inn, it's already looking like rain/snow. 

Til Thursday.

I'm up at 6am and peek out the window and yes! there's snow on the cars but nothing much on the roads (perfect world).

I grab the "grab-n-go" breakfast at the hotel and eat the muffin & yogurt in my room. I'm off into the park by 7am. 

Right now it's clear skies but there are still lots of clouds around.

As I drive into the park, the road has a thin layer of snow but not much new snow on the trees; I'm a bit disappointed but it still looks darn good.

I take the Sunset Point road and easily find a spot in the parking lot -- only 2 other cars there. Then I head to the rim.

Absolutely fantastic!!

But fighting more clouds than sun at this point.

I turn north and walk to Sunset Point. 

I never reach there footprints in the snow stop; it's all snow/ice. Figured if no one else ventured there; it may not be such a good idea. Turning around I head south until I reach the viewpoint and trail. There is only one set of tracks heading down. I follow stopping at the closed Wall Street Trail. 

I'd love to continue down but I'm a bit freaked that I'll be the only one down there on a slick trail. I turn back.

Back at the car, I head for the Bryce Point. Long drive to get there but when I arrive, there are no cars. I head up the path. I reach the intersection with the trail to Inspiration Point and the trail is closed for obvious reasons, steep icy. I head towards Bryce Point. It's snow/ice covered by I cruise to the viewpoint.

Darn incredible - wish there was more sun.

I decide to head the 6 miles to ??? Bridge but I'm climbing in elevation and the road is getting snowier. It's nothing more the 2 inches but I'm uncomfortable so it's time to head out. (It's almost 9am and I have an hours drive to Lower Calf Creek (and maybe some sun).

Mostly cloudy but wonderful drive with all the different rock formations along the way. Making me happy again!

Before long I pull into the Lower Calf creek parking. It's just after 10am and there's only 1 car in the parking lot! 

And a Towhee and Jay.

But as I get myself ready, 2 other cars arrive. I'm ahead of them on the trail so I should beat them to the Falls.

It's a nice walk despite the lack of sun and the lack of flowers. It's actually warmer in this canyon than outside; no need for a coat.

I end up passing the older couple ahead of me - I'll be first to the Falls.

Along the way, I see a few fish in the stream 

and a couple of fat squirrels, Towhees, Stellar Jay.

Before long, the 3 miles are behind and I get my first glimpse of the Falls -- I'm so excited!! What a spirit lifter!!

As expected, when  I arrive, it's all mine and I enjoy every minute as I eat my lunch. 

Just as I'm about to leave, another couple arrive. I leave them to the solitude.

The sun is out on the way back; looks so different.

Many more heading to the Falls now (maybe 6 groups).

Great hike (as always).

Is it a Robin or different bird?

Time to head over the Hogsback, up Boulder Mt and then to Torrey.

Hogbacks is amazing!

Boulder Mt is not so much snowy on the way up to 9700 ft up on the way down it is. 

And the mountains to the east are snowy with the red rock in front - love it!!

When I reach Torrey, I head towards the Visitors Center to get my barrings for tomorrow.

Welcome to Capitor Reef!

Time to call it a day!

This day is just what I needed!!