We enjoyed the occasional snack/rest break. That made the kids happy :)
We took advantage of some shade where the Bristlecone pines started to greet us. I think I've taken pictures of this young tree with my kids every year....
Sitting amongst the ancients.......
We took another rest at the heart of the Bristlecone Pine grove before continuing on to the glacier....
Above treeline, we had a tremendous view of the glacier and the snow that we were determined to get to...
We decided this was a great place to have "lunch with a view." Looking at the scenery made the sandwiches taste even better :)
........... and we're off again! *in my happy place*
Most of the kids ran ahead, looking like little ants in a row. Willow literally stopped to smell the flowers. The Sky Pilot plant was a memorable one as it smells just like a skunk lol
The snow was a lot of fun to play in.....
We got a group shot before descending the mountain.......
Willow's hiking skills are really impressive. Especially when she has to boost herself with her whole body to get up those rocks. I bring the ergo pack to give her a much needed break after a while. My not-so-little-anymore sidekick. She helps get my ass into shape in addition to being a colorful, cute accessory :)
We decided to detour (off trail) over to Brown Lake. There were some cool Bristlecones draped with moss. Every year I see these trees but they are never less interesting. They give me perspective.
Brown Lake was dramatically down from when I hiked it in June (here).
Shallow but still beautiful....
Isaac Haha ~ he cracks me up sometimes without even saying anything :D
