My iPhone GPS tracked 15.3 km and 453 m of elevation gain. Took about 5 hours at easy slow pace with lots of pictures taken!
Arrived and parked at the lower parking lot around 8:30 am. A lovely 5 degrees Celsius!! Nice clean outhouse in the lower parking lot - usually stocked with toilet paper :)
Headed off on the trail and within minutes hit the wildflowers... wow!!! Had been up later in the season last year and it wasn't as plentiful in flowers.
Carried on down the trail descending to the valley and Buckhorn camp - there are 2 outhouses here. I've seen them in decent shape stocked with toilet paper and other times, well, they were frightening.
Trail was in good shape - wide in some areas and then narrowing through fields of wildflowers. Loose rock and tree roots in areas. Used poles on this trip and found them helpful.
After passing Buckhorn camp, started ascending through the trees - beautiful mountain vistas peaked out between the trees and as you climbed, wildflower Meadows started to surround you. Not a difficult trail grade, but took a few rest stops and took pictures.
Exiting the trees and into the alpine meadows, we were greeted with stunning views of not only the endless wildflowers, but mountain views.
Another 10 minutes and we were on top the ridge, with lovely panoramic views of the mountain ranges.
Stopped for a quick snack and more pictures, then began journey back.
Fabulous hike and very glad for the cooler temperatures - much of the hike is exposed. Not too many bugs, but there was a nice breeze. 17 degrees Celsius by the time we returned to the parking lot.