July 17 - Willow Lake (BCC)

Well after debating about going to Willow Lake for 2 weeks, I'm finally heading up there after work. Another 90 degree day but there are thunderstorm looking clouds coming into the valley. I'm not afraid of the potential rain in the valley, we'd be lucky to get spit on. More worried about the mountains but time to head.

Uneventful trip up; except lots of cars heading down. Not many folks at the TH; I get a spot right in front of the trail. And my good timing, the sun is now behind the storm looking clouds. Not good for butterflying but keeps the temps down for a more pleasant walk.

I start up the trail and it is quite obvious that it's past bloom - the big patches of yellow flowers are drying up. However, there are flowers: Monkshood, Cornflower, 


Lupine, Buttercups, Coneflower, Geraniums, Paintbrush to name a few.

I'm seeing some butterflies to: Orange Coppers, Frits, Blue Copper, W. Admiral and Unknown Wood Nymph. Grrr, 1st time I've seen an Nymph on this trail and I get a blurry photo!

The meadow is pretty and there are ground squirrels moving around.

It starts to drizzle as I exit the meadow in the Aspens. Light rain, feels good!

The lake has water still.

I circle the lake and head thru another aspen grove.

And then I'm back at the meadow with sun arriving again soon.

Time to down.

See a pair of mating Police car moths.

Good hike.

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