Yellow Aster Butte — Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023

Enough said about this trail. Some practical info to share:

1. Almost no water source before you get to the tarns which is close to the false summit and requires a bit of detour. Some stagnant water half way but you probably don’t want it.

2. Parking: arrived at 8:15 on a sunny Sunday and got a spot 0.3 mile from the trailhead.

3. Forest road: much better than last year. It feels like they did some fix work. Should be fine for a sedan if you drive slow enough.

4. Bugs: if you stop they will attach you. Much better once above the tree line.

5. Where everyone stops is the false summit. The real summit is another half mile away but no added value in terms of views.

We enjoyed the fall colors but agreed that we should’ve done a larch hike since it just seems more exciting, so it’s entirely your pick! Enjoy hiking and keep the trails healthy!