Wonderful fall hike! Foliage is at 80-100% peak fall color in exposed areas. In the more protected spots, shrubs are just turning yellow. Meadows of distant peaks striking in their red and oranges. Very cold and windy in the morning, with fog having frozen to the tops of the trees.
Saw three mountain goats grazing high up above the lake. Heard elk bugling. Saw tadpoles in the lake, chipmunks and squirrels along the way. Flushed two grouse. Some mushrooms along the path. Most flowers gone to seed, though some patches of pearly everlasting holding on beautifully.
Such a beautiful trail is bound to be busy. Gentle grade and not too long - saw quite a few groups with young children hiking. Lots of dogs hiking too.
Restrooms out of toilet paper but still a welcome feature. Parking lot partially full overnight (Sat --> Sun), completely full and overflowing the overflow lot before noon on Sunday.
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