I stumbled upon this trail by driving out of Index and taking a Forest SErvice Road until a low-fallen tree blocked the road (I was in a small motor home, cars can fit beneath the tree). I continued up the road on foot until I came to the trail head where I was stopped by Forest Service Law Enforcement who told me I needed a $3 trail head pass. He found I was not in the 1 car at the trail-head and released me to the trail. The trail is in good shape, with steep switch-backs. About 1.5 miles up the trail, there is nothing but snow - about 1 - 2 foot deep. I met only one other hiker - a guy with a gun in a holster. The forest is second-growth, lots of birds - no other visible animals. I didn't want to continue through the snow since I was alone with my dog, but will return soon to see Blanca Lake. The quiet of the wonderful steep mountain peaks surrounding this area was marred by gunfire lasting about 1/2 hour. It scared my dog, and I can imagine it scared other animals. It is early spring in the mountains,a good time for contemplation, rest and celebration of life.