We got to the trailhead at about 9:30 am, a beautiful cloudless day. Some logs and fallen trees to navigate around throughout the hike. Wildflowers were in full force, especially on the boot trail that vectors off the main trail about a mile from the start. We were aware of recent sightings of a mountain lion in the area, so our party of three was vigilant. Signs of deer tracks in the mud on the trail. Our modest pace got us to the Beacon in about an hour and 45 minutes. We encountered no other hikers. Some snow patches on the way down, via the regular trail. It will most likely disappear in another week or two. After the Beacon Trail intersected with the main trail near the river, we encountered some more snow. In one patch, we found a perfectly preserved mountain lion paw print. It was fairly recent, as in that day. The snow around the edge of the print had not melted out. It was very well defined. We saw some others. The mountain lion was traveling in front of us. We increased our vigilance but encountered no creatures on the way down. When I got home, I found a large wood tick that had brushed off my pants on the bathroom floor. It was a monster. I advise you check for ticks after you hike in this area and don't forget the mountain lion.
I am attempting to attach a photo of the paw print but am not sure it is attaching.
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