Aug 11 - Silver Lake (Big Cottonwood Canyon)

Headed up Big Cottonwood Canyon with the plan going up to Twin Lakes. It's sunny and 78 degrees when I arrive. And surprise, there are hardly any cars up here. (Yea, back to normal!)

I head around the lake to the trail. Lots of darners flying today.

As I reach the trail, there are 2 ladies coming up behind me - chatty Cathy's. I continue towards Lake Solitude hoping the ladies go the other direction but nope, they're heading to Lake Solitude too. Darn!

I let them pass so they're talking will be at least muted because they are in front of me but I'll see them the whole hike. So when I reach the trail leading to the switchback, I turn left and head towards the switchback.

There's still Asters in bloom but the only butterflies I see are Mustard Whites (and only a couple). There are some moths flying though.

When I get to the switchback, I see a Pika and Marmot on the rocks. The Marmot is above the Pika. As I approach the Marmot moves lower and the Pika disappears.

I cross the switchback but I am not feeling like climbing to Twin Lakes in the sun so I find a nice rock overlooking Silver Lake and take a break. 

Beautiful evening with a great breeze - feels awesome!

Time to head down and home.

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