Skyline Divide — Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021

I got a late start on this one (this was trail option #2, but panned out great)...high elevations were shrouded in clouds/whiteout...but I knew the forecast was to clear as the day went on so I opted for the longer drive to the trailhead...there were plenty of parking options when I arrived around 11 am & the trail quickly had me captivated - I've never seen so many mushrooms on a trail & so much variety (if the sky's never cleared up I was captivated by all these trailside shrooms...I only had a couple of people pass me - this trail is fantastic for solitude (I'm guessing the long bumpy drive in keeps the crowds away.  once on the ridge I was delighted with the colorful meadows, the ridgeline trail & the hide & seek views/vistas.  I went about 4.7 miles in (didn't quite make it to the alpine tarn at the end - next time)...but by 4pm I wanted a food break & it was time for me to head back. there was clearly an inversion starting (low clouds are just awesome) & as I walked out both big peaks & endless vistas progressively revealed themselves...just wow....this trail blew me away. for more pics & highlights IG:@janettepowell