HUMMOCKS LOOP ~ Not sure why it’s more like a lollipop loop! We started at the parking lot at 8am and it was already 50% full. We stayed to the left and continued on and up to the Observation center. The first part of the trail is under partial shade with a beautiful grove of Aspen Trees. Eventually you are almost in full exposure to the sun and as you travel, the flowers really start to pop. It’s butterfly heaven right now. So many Variable Checkerspots and many others.
There are a few areas on the trail that are narrow and steep, with very room for error on your footing. So hiking poles were very helpful as the trail is dusty and full of loose scree. But other than that, the trail I pretty straight forward.
AMAZING BLOOM RIGHT NOW! The desert lupine and oxeye daisy are at their peak. But the horseflies were no joke!!
Got to the observation area and found some shade for lunch against the building. Stayed and enjoyed the views and relative solitude. So strange to not see too many visitors at the center. They are estimating the area will be closed until 2026 due to recent road washout last spring.
Turned around and headed back at a slightly quicker pace and the sunlight was better for photography on the way back. Highly recommend stopping at Cold Water Lake afterwards for a swim. Shallow water and perfect temperature. Expect to share the beach with other humans hoping to cool off for a few hours. Lots of families. Shade along the shore for when you need a break. (Swimming access is to the right as you enter and the boat launch is on the left.)
Each of us brought 4 liters of water and plenty of electrolytes. There are not any water sources along the trail, not even at the observation center. Be sure to cover up with sunscreen and long-sleeve wicking shirt. Hot hot hot!
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