June 19 - Twin Lakes Loop (BCC)

 Well, it's Juneteenth so it's a holiday and I don't have to work. Heading up to hike the Twin Lakes Loop (and perhaps head up to the Pass).

Got an early start as 1) I'm sure BCC will crowded 2) it's supposed to be 103 degrees today. Arriving before 8am (really not as early as I planned but oh well). Plenty of spots in the parking lot though.

I head out along the boardwalk; no moose, deer or beaver to be sent. (Come to think, I have not seen a moose yet this year. Maybe I can break that streak today.)

I head to Lake Solitude for the 1st loop attempt this year.

Flowers are starting to bloom as I see Lupine, Geraniums, Bluebells but there's a long way to go.

Forest is quiet this morning; no pika andfew squirrels, chipmunks.

I'm surprised but a W. Tiger Swallowtail sighting but no too much farther down the trail I see another one (perhaps the same) nectaring on Bluebells.

I also find White Columbine, a few Heartleafed Arnica, and Paintbrush.

All the snow I ran into last time I was here is pretty much gone. There are a few small patches on the trail or in the landscape but it's a clean trail. In those prior snow covered patches, I find small buttercups.

I arrive at Lake Solitude; she's quiet this morning.

After a quick break, I start making my way up the hill for the 1st time this year. Hoping to see some butterflies. Especially looking for Chryxus Arctic; it's been awhile since I last seen them. It maybe still too early but I'm watching.

Before I cross the footbridge, the flowers are blooming: groundsel, Nuttall's Flaxflower, Penstemon and yellow Buckwheat.

Uphill on the other side of the lake are large patches of snow still; just not enough sunlight.

On the other side of the lake and heading uphill, I see what appears to be a few Field Crescents though I never get a good look.

The small patch of early blooming flowers is happening on the 1st slope including Paintbrush, and others.

As I make that 2nd turn I see two flyers above and I head up for a look. Holy cow! Chryxus Arctics; two of them!!! Makes my day!

Then the big climb starts. It wasn't a pretty climb as I stopped many time really unnecessarily but just happily doggin it this morning. 

There's still a few big patches of snow but the ski crews have plowed through them which makes it a clear trail. 

Looking for early flyers but no success.

Soon I'm at the top with a wonderful view!

I head to my perch which requires avoiding a large patch of snow. Break time!

I decide to head to the Pass. The plants are still very low to the ground here so I'm surprised when a Milbert's Tortoiseshell flies by.

I keeping going but when I get close to the Pass Trail, I see the expected large patch of snow; maybe next week-end. 

Time to head back down to Twin Lakes.

Definitely many people out this morning. I run into a couple from TX and have a short chat with them.

Oh, and I see an Orangetip.

On the way down, I decide to do the Millie Express today - but no butterflies. :(

And speaking of Moose, as I drive around Brighton, there are two moose (one is a bull) feeding alongside the curve. I could stop but don't. And that's #1 and #2 for the year!

Awesome day!

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