LAKE BLANCHE--SUNDIAL PEAK (almost) 8.9 miles / 4,285 ft elevation gain Going to get into Big Cottonwood for the next little bit. I finally wrapped my head around this whole Mill B, Mill D business, realizing that the "Mill's" aren't in Millcreek but Big Cottonwood. I didn't jump on to one of the "Mill" trails today but decided to do the iconic Lake Blanche trail. Somewhat of a late start going directly from work. Headed up canyon, a bit steep and rocky for running. Met a nice couple from Georgia heading down asking how far the lake was. I mentioned that if they were looking for the lake they were going the wrong way...realizing they had just turned around for fear that it would get dark before they could make it. I convinced them to turn back around, as they were already half way, and that they'd make it there and back before dark. (Saw them later at the lake and they were blown-away and thankful for the gentle persuasion.) Decided to push-on to Sundial Peak scrambling up the scree slope heading south and west. Found a reasonable way up (not sure if it's the right way up--need to research) which required some rock climbing/scrambling. I promise myself as well as others that when I'm running alone that I won't do anything stupid (too stupid). The climb up to the peak was getting a bit dicey, it was after 8 pm and I thought better and with only perhaps 300 ft to go I turned around and headed down--another day with a bit more time I'll get it done.
As close as I would get today Beautiful lake, large moon coming over the ridge. BEWARE...the mosquitos are out!! Quick run down, getting dark. Saw a small bull moose half way down. Great run/hike. |