April 21 - Mill D South Trail (Big Cottonwood Canyon)

It's sunny with highs in the 70s. Since Antelope Island is no longer an option; it's but bitey bug season - my curiosity has got the best of me and I'm heading up Big Cottonwood Canyon. I considered a hike up to the meadow on the Mill D South/Cardiff Mine trail but with 600 inches of snow this winter, I just want to look.

Got an early start (around 7am) to beat the ski traffic; yes, the resorts are still open with the 600 inches of white stuff.

Lots of greening happening as I head up the canyon. Of course, the lower portions are melted out as are the south facing slopes. Big Cottonwood Creek is running but no where like it will be in a few weeks.

The higher up I get, the more snow of course.

I pull up to Mill D and my initial plan was not to walk the road; just look but I just couldn't resist. Oh, it's 29 degrees with the snow still coming up.

There were 3 skiers ahead of me but I'm just taking my time and enjoying the sights from the road

 including the plow drifts that are about 5 feet tall in spots.

Note the road is clear of snow.

Finally I get my view of Mt Reynolds at the end of the road.

I could turn around here but I decide to keep going to the trail head on the hard packed snow. Why, I have no idea but I am glad I decide not to hike the trail.

At the trail head, I turn back and head to my car.

Birds are starting to get more active. I believe this is a Pine Siskin.


From there I get a another view from the parking area

and then head up the canyon. It's still before 8am and the resorts don't open until 9am so traffic is still very light.

I was hoping to step out at Silver Lake for some shots but the Nordic Center is still open and the only way in it's through building. Oh well, everything looks awesome!

Time to head down -- yes, it was well worth the trip!

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