Last weekend Jordan and I hiked up to Highland Park. We left after work on Friday, and started our trek after 4:15p. The first 2.5 miles were a fairly easy walk following the shoreline of an alpine reservoir. Shortly into our walk, we spied the remnants of an old flume from days gone by when lumber was a local commodity.
We eventually climbed to just over 10,300 ft, and there were still patches of fairly deep snow in the higher elevations. Much of the snow had a tinge of pink from an algae that grows up there (locals call it watermelon snow).
After a long work week, 8 miles and 2200 feet of vertical gain, we were fairly exhausted by the time we reached out campsite. But the views were SO worth it!
We woke to the sound of nearby elk chirping. It's still a thrill to get so close to these majestic creatures.
Later that morning we explored the huge meadow nestled near the base of Black Tooth mountain.
Hmmm... I wonder which way the wind blows?
We reluctantly made our way back home, stopping to watch several bull elk in the distance. We also spied a mule deer doe and her fawn.
From sunrise (top photo) to sunset, we had an incredible day!
