Wildflowers – On the Loose Live

Spectacular Wildflower Hike With Add-On to Cecret Lake Saddle, Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah

September 12, 2026livevigorously

The Wildflower Trail, The Easy Way: Via the Snowbird Ski Resort Tram: 1 mile rt + ~400ft elevation gain – Begin at Hidden Peak, wind down switchbacks through Mineral Basin and through the Peruvian Tunnel.

The Hard Way From the Bottom of the Tram: + 7.5 miles + ~3k ft elevation gain (Take the tram down or double your mileage)

Continue to Cecret Lake Saddle Overlook: add ~ 2 miles with a total of 4,524 elevation gain (Take the tram down or double your mileage.)

If you know me by now, you won’t be surprised that I took “the hard way” up (alternating between the fire road and the multiuse Big Mountain Trail (keep your eyes and ears open for downhill mountain bikers) to the Wildflower Trail and beyond to Cecret Lake via Gorilla Pass and Mount Baldy. This time, it wasn’t entirely intentional. I was ready to hike before 8AM, but the tram wasn’t scheduled to tram until 11AM. (Surprising Summer hours, given that hikers usually want to get an early start to avoid afternoon storms.) The solution was obvious—beat the tram up the mountain, and so we did.

A scenic view of a mountainous landscape featuring green coniferous trees, a valley, and a backdrop of steep, rocky terrain under a clear blue sky.

A person hiking on a dirt trail through a mountainous landscape, carrying a backpack, surrounded by pine trees and rocky slopes under a clear blue sky.

The sublime, surreal reward of the Wildflower Trail left me both breathless and speechless. Hopefully, you can see why.

It’s not surprising that this trail is often featured in the annual Wasatch Wildflower Festival a free, annual multi-day summer event hosted by the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation which spans the four Cottonwood Canyons ski resorts (Brighton, Solitude, Snowbird, and Alta) that are just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City. I’ve experienced the California super blooms, which are incredible, but this had a totally different, ethereal feel. Perhaps it’s because there were no traffic jams en route, nor cars piled up by the side of the road, and it wasn’t overrun by too many humans, particularly influencers crushing the wildflowers underfoot and underbody for their shots and the kids and adults picking them. (In fact, I hiked the Wildflower Trail twice around sunset and we had it all to ourselves!) So happy for the spontaneous rendezvous with my dear high school friend Kathy, whom I haven’t seen in forever! What a treat to share the trail with her. She knew all the wildflower names! In the bottom right picture, she is pointing to the coneflowers. The cone is made up of hundreds of tiny disc flowers that turn into seed heads, which provide winter food for goldfinches and songbirds.

Note: The Wildflower Trail hike and the top of the tram (Hidden Peak) are at 11k feet, as is the ridgeline you traverse if you continue on to Mount Badly and beyond to Cecret Lake Saddle or down to the lake itself.

Ski map of Mount Baldy showing trails, elevation markers, and ski gates with snowy mountain landscape in the background.

The descent to the connector trail to Cecret Lake is rugged and scarmbly, with loose rocks and slippery scree (See pic below, top row, 3rd to right). It makes you wonder if you’re really on a trail. Not sure what happened there, but it’s a mess and in stark contrast to all the other well-groomed, runnable trails. Proceed with caution if you decide to add on.

Even though you’re at high altitude and it’s cooler than at the bottom, you’re still completely exposed to the intense, alpine sun and susceptible to heat- and altitude-related illness. So remember your sunglasses, hat, sun-cover shirt, and bring plenty of water. (If the restaurant is open, you can refill at the top.) Cautionary tale: My other hiking buddy didn’t bring enough water, didn’t refill at the top, and hiked shirtless, with his dark, tanned back absorbing UV radiation (which, I learned, increases by about 10% for every ~3,280 feet of elevation gain). In my friend’s defense, he thought we were going to take the tram up and hike a shorter hike, and we both forgot to refill our water at the top. Unfortunately, on the tram down, he felt sick from extreme dehydration and heat- and altitude-related illness that nearly sent him to the hospital. (The medic at Snowbird was awesome, as were the firemen.) Fortunately, he recovered fine, but it serves as a stark reminder to both of us that altitude, sun exposure, and dehydration are never to be taken lightly.

A scenic view of a mountainous landscape with blooming white wildflowers in the foreground, green shrubs and trees, and a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.

Scenic landscape featuring a tranquil lake surrounded by green forests and rocky mountains under a bright blue sky with fluffy white clouds.

Lodging: I highly recommend treating yourself to a stay at the Snowbird Resort. Superb experience, incredibly helpful and accommodating staff, good food, fun times. Keep your eyes open for an upcoming “Top Pick Post” on Snowbird Resort.

A person in a black outfit joyfully poses among vibrant blue and pink wildflowers in a mountainous landscape under a clear blue sky.

Happy Trails!

PSA: Reminder, please don’t pick or walk on the wildflowers anywhere; it harms the delicate ecosystem, impacts pollinators, and means fewer flowers each year.

Challenge yourself to find creative photo op solutions. (I scouted the shot above with the wildflowers in the foreground by placing myself on the switchback of the trail ahead, so it appears that I am standing in an uninterrupted field of wildflowers.)

Backcountry Vibes Without a Big Hike, Tokopah Falls Trail, Sequoia National Park, CA

September 9, 2025livevigorously

Distance: 3.4 Miles

Elevation Gain: 615 ft

Difficulty: Easy, depending on your fitness level and sensitivity to altitude (as the trailhead is at 6,700 ft and the falls are at ~7,315 ft)

If you know me by now, you know I like a big hike and chasing waterfalls. Topokah Falls, in this case, offered neither, but in my opinion, it was still 100% worth it. Perhaps the pictures below will convince you why.

Even when the 1,200-foot falls were but a trickle, as is often the case in late summer, this is still a delightful little hike on a well-groomed, easy trail alongside a stream, glades of wildflowers, and gradually up to some impressive granite slopes. As you near the falls, you’ll encounter short sections of rocky footing.

This area has a wonderful “back-country” Eastern Sierra vibe; it reminded me a bit of Yosemite.

(Given its easy accessibility, you may be sharing it with a Boy Scout troop or other large groups.) Go early and have it all to yourself.

From the Lodgepole Campground, there are other trails to add on if you have the time and inclination, including Cahoon Meadow (2.6 miles) and Twin Lakes (6.5 miles). If there’s a next time for me, I’d probably take the Twin Lakes Trail. If you’ve done these hikes, let me know how they were.

Happy Trails! Leave No Trace! Tread Lightly! (Note, I’m not tromping on the wildflowers; there’s a path going through them that’s obscured in this photo, but perhaps it’s a good time for a PSA: As pretty as wildflowers are, please don’t pick them. They are essential for the ecosystem, including the pollinators, birds, and wildlife. Also, it’s illegal in most areas, including National Parks, though you’ll often see people doing it.)

Magnificent Mount Timpanogos in July Never Disappoints: Wildflowers, Waterfalls, Wildlife, and Wild Views-Oh My! (Via Timpooneke, Trail), UT

July 21, 2024November 5, 2024livevigorously

Distance: ~13 Miles RT

Elevation Gain: 4,856 ft

Difficulty: Moderate to hard, depending on your fitness level and acclimation to altitude

My second splendid summit of Mount Timpanogos (11,753 ft) was via the Timpooneke Trailhead. (And yep, I’m sticking with the same title. Mount Timpanogos simply has ALL the ingredients for a great hike. I’ve seen Mt. Timpanogos from both sides now (Aspen Grove Trailhead and Timpooneke), and both routes are gorgeous. Mount Timpanogos still ranks as the best US hike I’ve done.

Trail Notes: Keep your eyes open; at Mile 1, the trail takes a sharp right turn. (I kept going straight on what appeared to be a wide, well-traveled trail that stopped short across a stream. I ended up scaling a waterfall avalanche chute before it dawned on me that I was on another one of my “off trail explorations”—yep, I know, lol. I later learned I wasn’t the only one and suggested to the ranger that a sign might be advisable.)

At the 3-mile mark, a “snow bridge” had collapsed across the middle of a waterfall, requiring careful traversing of the slanted, slippery snow field. The picture below may not look too treacherous, but there is a waterfall crevasse directly under the snow. One slip could be a big, potentially final slip if you know what I mean.

Crampons would help, but given the onslaught of the heat wave we’ve been having, this section won’t be an obstacle for long. Other than that, the trail is well-marked until you reach the Emerald Lake juncture. The Summit Trail (054) is the unmarked (I’m not sure why) trail to the right.

Cons: This route seems busier/more crowded. (I was there on a weekend. I’m sure it’s better on a weekday.) You may want to challenge yourself with the extra 1k of elevation that the Aspen Grove route delivers.)

Pros: It’s easier—there is 1,000 feet less elevation gain, and a couple of miles shorter. Best of all, you completely bypass the tortuous snow and talus field that takes forever to painstakingly cross on the Aspen Grove route. (See picture below.) Footing is easy the entire way on the Timpooneke route perhaps that’s why it’s so popular with trail runners.

On the way up, you’ll go through what I’ll call “Moose Meadow,” where I saw the moose below with her calf.

You get a great “bowl” view of Timp’s peak above and surrounding peaks from the wildflower-filled meadow basin.

After which, the trail begins to climb in earnest to the Timp Saddle, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Utah Valley and the summit ahead. If you’re lucky, you may see grazing, napping, or salt-licking mountain goats along the way. Give the mountain goats space and respect. I(I have a great magnifier on my camera.) (While the goats look docile, they have been known to kill loose dogs that harass them (3 loose dogs were killed by goats last year) and gore people who get too close.)

I saw several off-leash dogs—doesn’t seem prudent! I’m guessing the moose wouldn’t take kindly to the loose dogs, either.

To reach the summit, mild scrambling is required. The section is short and nontechnical, but it is not for the faint of heart or those scared of heights. The panoramic views are tremendous, but it was a bit hazy when I summited—perhaps due to the wildfires in the surrounding areas.

Did I mention waterfalls? Lots!

Notes: On weekends, you need to reserve a parking spot: Timpooneke Parking Reservations

Caution: This hike involves significant elevation gain and hiking at elevation. Be aware of the signs of altitude sickness. It can sneak up on you even if you’ve never had it before. It happened to me recently on Wheeler Peak. On the way down Timpanogos, a teenage girl was in a fetal position by the trail, holding her head. Her family had called for rescue. Hopefully, she’s okay.

Happy and Safe Trails!

Summiting Magnificent Mount Timpanogos: Waterfalls, Wildflowers, Wildlife, & Wild Views—Oh my!

September 9, 2021July 19, 2024livevigorously

Elevation gain:5,384ft

Mileage: ~15 Miles RT

Summit: 11,752ft, the 2^nd highest mountain in Utah

Difficulty: Hard, strenuous – due to altitude, elevation gain, and ~1.5 miles ea way of an unstable, tortuous, talus field

Happened to be in the area and made the spontaneous decision to hike Mount Timpanogos via the Aspen Grove Trailhead. So glad I did. By far, Mount Timp (as the locals call it) is my new, all-time favorite hike / peak. And I’ve done a ton of hiking across the country and around the world. I couldn’t stop smiling all the way to the 11,752-foot summit and back. Ok, maybe my smile was a bit of a grimace through the 1.5 miles back and forth across the treacherous talus strewn avalanche field. Rest assured, the grimace quickly reverted to ear to ear, exuberant glee once I reached the summit and then again as I descended back down to the lake.

What’s make Mount Timpanogos so wonderful, you ask? Well, the title gave it way, but in case you missed it:

Abundant colorful, wildflowers of more varieties than I’ve ever seen
Dazzling waterfalls around nearly very switchback
Pristine alpine lake and snow field a couple miles from the summit
Muscular mountain goats guarding the upper slopes and frolicking by the lake
5,384 ft elevation gain in altitude delivers a fitness challenge and solid workout
Sweeping views of Utah Valley from the saddle and spectacular panoramic views from the summit

This hike had it all—absolutely enchanting.

Started the trail in a steady rain, and walked up a verdant paved path for about a mile and a half or so before the pavement gave way to the elements. Plentiful wildflowers and sparkling waterfalls distracted from the effort of the climb and the sun’s radiance soon highlighted all of the beauty, mist rising. The trail is easy to follow with plenty of switchbacks to help mitigate the elevation gain. It felt almost tropical at times.

The lovely Hidden Lake Basin and Emerald Lake are destinations for many, including the mountain goats.

Those who push on beyond the mile and ½ talus torture field and onward and upward still, are well rewarded at the summit.

Pay your respects to the kings of the mountain along the way. If you have good eyesight, you might spy the summit hut from thousands of feet below. It’s a bit daunting and exciting because it seems so far away, almost out of reach.

From the summit, you’ll take in dizzying 360 degree views of Utah Valley and Utah Lake to the west, Lone Peak and American Fork Twin Peaks to the north and expansive views everywhere in between.

Disclaimer: I experienced Mt. Timp in her July glory. I was told by locals that I wouldn’t recognize her in the Fall when the waterfalls are dry, the wildflowers have disappeared, and the green meadows have turned to yellow hay. Others report that Fall colors are nice here. Someday, perhaps I’ll be back to see for myself. In the meantime, if you’ve been in another season, let me know what it was like.

Notes: I’d say hiking shoes are a must to navigate the talus field. There were some hard core, ultra runners in trail runners. (I know – WOW!) Hiking poles are also a nice to have, given the elevation gain and loss. Layers are always smart at altitude. Be aware of weather changes and avalanche danger.

Getting there: I-15N to Pleasant Grove, exit 275. Follow N County Blvd and UT-92 E to the Aspen Grove Trailhead.

Stay tuned: I’ll be posting the videos soon!

Happy trails!

Chasing Waterfalls and Wildflowers: Three Sisters Falls Hike, SD County

May 5, 2019May 19, 2019livevigorously

San Diego County’s 3-tiered seasonal waterfall in Cleveland National Forest is definitely worth a visit when the water is running.

At the beginning of the hike, these 3 lovely trees will greet you.

The falls are much more impressive than you might expect. As you hike down the trail, you can see the frothy, white veils in the distance.

For me, it was vaguely reminiscent of Yosemite. Of course, I was fortunate to experience the area after a rainy season, during the spring super bloom. The hillsides were green and sprinkled generously with wildflowers. If you’ve been following my superbloom posts (Walker Canyon, Diamond Valley Lake, Denk Mountain) this spring, you know I can’t get enough of these wildflowers. (I wasn’t expecting any on this hike and what a wonderful surprise to see the colorful abundance along the trail – perfect wildflower filters for my distant water shots.)

It’s a pleasant single-track, out & back trail that takes you down to the falls and then bring you back up to the parking area.

The falls are a wonderful spot to have a picnic, cool off, and while away the afternoon – that is if you don’t mind being joined by too many humans who have the same idea. (Heavy sigh.) Be forewarned, this is one of San Diego’s most popular hikes so go early or be prepared for the crowds and a full parking lot.

If you want to add on another hike, the Cedar Creek Falls hike is in the vicinity too. Since I’ve done that one already, I decided to take the scenic drive out the other side on Descanso Road.

The Scoop on 3 Sisters Waterfall Hike

Distance: 4 miles RT (out & back)

Elevation gain/loss :1000 ft (downhill on the way out, uphill on the way back)

Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on your fitness level. Trail run friendly on a non-crowded morning.

Getting there: From the town of Julian, turn left on Pine Hills Road, right on Eagle Creek, and left on Boulder Creek Road, which will become dirt road for the last 5 miles.

Note: Both Boulder Creek and Descanso are dirt roads with potholes, but no suv or 4-wheel drive needed. A regular passenger car with adequate ground clearance will do the trick as you have patience with potholes and bumps. However, it might not be prudent to attempt it without a SUV or 4-wheel drive after a heavy rain.

Fee: Display a National Forest Adventure Pass – $5 day pass [purchase info] https://www.fs.fed.us/portaldata/r5/ap/r5-ap-vendors.php

On the way home, I added on short, vertical hike / scramble at Flinn Springs County Park on old highway 80 off highway 8. Post to come.