The good news is that the showers ended around 11am and the sun came out but still going with Plan B which is a return to Millcreek Canyon and the Desolation Trail to SL Overlook. First time I've been here mid-day, hoping for butterflies.
The trail head was busy this afternoon so lots of company.
The Solomon's Seal in the wooded areas are now blooming. As were the roses
and many many flowering shrubs.
The Oaks were filling out with their larger leaves.
The trail looks a lot less colorful as all of the Glacier Lilies and Waterleaf have gone to seed - very true for many of the Heartleaf Arnica as well.
There are damselflies out and they seem to be hanging around some of the flowering shrubs.
Not sure if that's a coincidence or not.
Also seeing a few Western Tailed Blue and Northern Cloudywings flying.
In the rockier area, there are many blue penstemon looks like two different species: one with a small flower found along the rocks
and the other a larger flower.
There may be a lack of blooming flower but the forest floors are so green now with lots of lower growing vegetation. Nothing blooming yet (I'm assuming there will be blooms).
In the more shadier sections, I'm finding Woodland Star and something very similar.
Also finding Alumroot with yellow flowers..
In the drier sections, I find some Blue Flax,
these Pink flower with dainty stems (looks a little like a mallow but its only 6=8in tall).
and Wild Onion.
In the upper sections, to my surprise I find one of my favorite western butterflies the Clodius Parnassian. I count 3 of them.
I get to my turn around spot - the SLC overlook. I enjoy the views for a bit before heading down.
There are lots of folks heading up the trail now so when I get to the Thayne Canyon turnoff, I head back to the trail head along the Thayne Canyon trail.
Not my mountain hike but still a good time.
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