Summerland

With shorter days, darker dawns, and a definite chill in the morning air, I opted to hike to Summerland in the warmer afternoon sunshine of autumn. Only 5 cars at the trailhead when I arrived at 11:30 am. This easy-to-moderate graded trail that gains 1500 ft in 4.2 miles (most of it in the final mile up to Summerland) is in excellent condition, but once you cross the last log bridge spanning Fryingpan Creek, be wary of the dusting of frozen snow glazing the trail in shaded areas. I'd advise good tread on your hiking shoes and poles to keep you balanced, as the frozen stuff was rather slick. Fall colors are modest but haven't peaked. Ran into only 5 others on the trail. 2 hours in, 1.5 hours out.