Eighteen of us headed north to hike up to Alta Lake, then hike up to the ridge to have lunch.  I was a bit nervous at the start, not usually having that many hikers, but the group was very professional and in excellent shape, so no management of the team was needed.  They knew exactly what to do, sticking together and taking care of any issues we encountered.  Thanks to you all for coming out and hiking with me.

The trail has changed a lot over the past 2 years, when we last undertook this hike.  The trail was more of a creek bed, with much of the dirt washed away, leaving many rocks that liked to roll around as you stepped on them.  However, we all did fine and after passing Frog Pond, finally ended up at Alta Lake.  Then we hiked up another 75 feet to the ridge and had a Maria lunch (over 45 minutes), enjoying the view of the Seven Lakes Basin and Devil's Peak.  The sun was out, it was mid 60’s and the view was awesome.  Several hikers actually took a short nap.

Jerry decided to head back to the lake for a quick swim, and we finally headed back towards the cars.  Although the flowers were very scarce, the mushroom and fungi were plentiful.   Some of us stopped at Pizza Schmizza for refreshments and snacks.  Francie introduced us to roasted brussel sprouts with capers, garlic, olive oil, tomatoes and parmesan cheese.  A very tasty snack.

Keeley

Track download: Alta Lake 9-25-19.gpx