[the Zachster]

I fully expected this to be a crowded day with such delightful weather reports, but I was shocked to find only one car at the trailhead at 9 AM (and it was apparently an overnighter). Shortly in to the hike a couple of nice gentlemen passed me and beyond that it was solitude! Well, except for my hiking buddy, Cedar! I thought he was looking exceptionally fine in the fall foliage today!

Here are some more shots along the trail

I was really hoping to see a bear today and kind of had an idea of where I might see one so we took a little detour, shouting "Hey, bear!" and sure enough...there he was! About 20 feet away, I heard a twig snap and looked up to see a lovely brown (black) bear looking back at me! I had my camera in hand but in retrospect, I'm glad that my safety instincts took precedence over my photographer's madness. As I watched to see what his intentions were, it was clear that he was not in the mood for a photo op and quickly turned and disappeared in to the brush. It was a blessing just to see him though. Made my day! The trip out to Gem was peaceful but I must say it was terribly muddy (the really slippery stuff). Definitely had to watch my footing. As I was concluding a snack break, the solitude was briefly interrupted by a nwhiker sighting...as Malachai Constant blasted by on his way to his destination! Here's the the big talus field before Gem

Cedar checking out Gem

Cedar chillin' at Gem

And more Gem

Another happy day in the mountains! As a final PS...They have recently installed these bearproof garbage cans (thank you!). There's one at Pratt Lake/Granite TH also.

[Malachai Constant]

I would have stopped to talk more but was on a tight schedule, great day though

[the Zachster]

[mgd]

Looks like a great day for a hike! I like the detail in the reflection shot.

[Hikingqueen]

Sorry we weren't together seeing bears, but we both had a great day it seems. Cedar looks so happy chilling by the lake

[Go Jo]

[Mrs. Baker]

Cedar is a magnificent creature! Zachster, you really take fabulous pictures! Very lovely. I'm still trying to wrap my head around fall... Can't believe it is here already.

[Flora]

I agree, Cedar is a very handsome fellow. Lovely autumn colors. Thanks.

[harrymalamute]

I love it when canine's turn red in fall

[the Zachster]

[Highwalker's Daughter]

such gorgeous fall color - well captured by you!