Field Springs State Park - Puffer Butte — Monday, Apr. 19, 2021

Fields Spring is a gem of a state park! We had nearly the whole park to ourselves for 2 nights staying at Tamarack Cabin. The park ranger was friendly and provided us with a ton of info on the area. 
We started out on the west side of the loop to Puffer Butte, near the park office. About 1/8 mile in, we realize there were too many snow patches that could lead to sprained ankles (or worse) with tunnels, so we turned back and approached the east side of the parking area a few hundred feet south of Puffer Butte Lodge. There’s a bathroom there at the start of the trailhead. 
This part of the trail was in good condition, a couple small snow patches, and a few downed trees that our mid-sized dog could hop over. It was a steady and pleasant climb to the warming hut, and the meadows and views are just lovely. We were a bit early for wildflowers, but in a couple week it should be perfect. We took a small rest up at the benches at the hut and some photos too, and then head back the way we came. It was a great little hike, and a nice training hike for the dog who is still new to trails. Check out the Morning Song trail on your way back down for bonus views!
For the 48 hours we were there, we saw more bird species than humans. Truly a gem of a park in a quiet part of the state! I look forward to coming back.