Spending the 4th of July outside is the perfect way to enjoy summer. We began at the Ski Hill parking lot because we had an anxious puppy with us who needed to get out and and go as much as the rest of us. Everything is so green right now, there must be at least a hundred shades of green or more in the landscapes. It looked like it might stay overcast, but as we hiked the sun peaked through the clouds every now and then. The new cat track on Mt. Eyak is a very pleasant walk. There has been some talk about a black bear around, but we did not see any sign and kept a nice chat going to let any creatures know we were coming through. After taking a quick break at the picnic table to enjoy the view (near the top of the lift) we continued on up the trail toward the cut off trail that leads to Crater Lake Trail. The trail was quite dry with a few muddy sections in the area above the lift before the cut off, easy walking. The sign for the cut off is on the ground, but it is easy to see the trail to the right that heads over the Crater Lake Trail. In this area we did see bear sign and make extra effort to sing, talk loudly and keep the dog close to us in hopes of alerting the animals of our route. We also heard a marmot whistle at us but could not figure out where the animal was. Sunshine Bowl area is so beautiful to walk through this time of year and it is constantly amazing how the views change with every bend of the trail. Another break at the picnic table halfway through the cut off trail gave us time to drink some water. Then onward through dappled light and old growth trees that really are magical. We went down the steps to the Crater Lake trail and turned left on Crater Lake Trail. The flowers are so bright and colorful they seem unreal. Next trip a flower book will help with identification of forgotten flower names. Along the sidehill trail area there was a bit more bear sign, making some noise was a priority in this area too. Then up and over and then we were at the lake. It was nice to lounge in the grass and wade for awhile, the sun even came out so a bit of sky watching felt really good! On the way down our marmot friend began to say hello again and this time we got lucky and got a photo! There was a baby with this large marmot! It was all downhill from there as we headed down the Crater Lake Trail past the bench, ending at Skaters Cabin. The best way to spend Independence Day Ever!
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