Skyline Divide

     I had to do this today. Reading the most recent trip reports on this hike convinced me, so I hit the road early and headed north. Arrived at the trailhead at 9am and started the climb. The trail is in great condition, nice tread, no mud, a nice grade. Its not too steep, but enough at times to get you breathing hard. Starting early the trail is shaded and cool until the top. There is no water source along the trail now, however.
     Once you reach the clearing, wow, you are greeted by the expanse of Baker, fields of wild flowers and views as far as you can see. Lucky for the dogs there were still big patches of snow to cool off on. Probably won't be around much longer though. The snow didn't impede travel on the trail.
     Others have reported a lot of bugs on this trail. Not sure if it was because I slathered up in bug juice beforehand, or the early start but didn't have a problem at all with bugs on the way up. There were buzzing flies and bees later on the way down but never bothered me. Just gave my little dog something to do on the descent. I think he caught a few, too.
     This was a popular destination today. A lot of folks were on the trail but there is so much room it never felt crowded.