May 9 - Silver Lake & Willow Lake (Big Cottonwood Canyon)

 Cold morning (in the 30s) but sunny day forecast (but clouding up in the afternoon).

Heading up to Silver Lake this morning. Yes, just to the lake; I'll head up to Twin Lakes next week weather permiting.

I arrive around 7:30 and there's no cars the in lot. The temperature is in the mid-20s (brrr).

There's been some melt as expected but not as much as I thought. Still can't see the boardwalk so I make my way the best path possible.

I reach the footbridge (which still has snow on it) and cross. There is now open water on the right (north side) and a bit of open water on the other side. But the ice has got the melting look.

I work my way around the rest of the lake; 

the corner to the opposite side has the best view.


Some nice ice work along the way.

And completed the loop. 

Funny no ducks today. 

Time to head down the canyon to Willow Lake trail head. The lower section looks clear; might as well give it a shot.

I'm the only at the trail head as I start up the trail. When I reach the intersection, I decide to take the right path. The trail is clear and filled with Spring plants emerging from the forest floor - looks mainly like Bluebells and Columbine (or Columbine-like plant). 

I also find some moose tracks heading downhill.

I've pretty much completed the "climb" portion and am heading thru the woods towards the lake when I run into snow on the trail. I follow the tracks for a bit but they are thinning. I've got to be close but I decide its best to turn around and head down. Hey, at least I got some exercise. :)

When I reach the intersection again, I decide to continue up the left side to see if it's easier (i.e., less snow and a clearer path).

And it is just as good on the lower sections. I even see more moose tracks and a ground squirrel.

I do eventually reach snow. I can skirt around it in places and walk on it in others. But the path to the meadow is very clear.

I reach a mostly snow covered meadow with a beautiful views of the peaks at the Solitude Resort.

As I start up the meadow towards the Willow Lake, I stop to watch the ground squirrels which are pretty busy this morning.

I also find the small Spring pond which is just beginning to melt.

I work my way to the lake which is still frozen - first for me!


I'm tempted to head over to the other side but I'll give it a few weeks.

Time to head back the way I came.

Good day!

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