I’m curious about the trail along Thomas Creek because it’s the only one on the map that reaches the ridge that leads to Mount Rose. It’s also the most difficult trailhead to access on a bumpy forest road that crosses the creek once over several miles of climbing. We stop short, and find the trailhead has been moved and the trail rerouted around private property. These factors keep us from reaching the ridge, but we get up into the higher meadows.

Me on the trail

There are still plenty of wildflowers blooming. Pinedrops too, though they are starting to look old. One batch has made a tent of pine needles for shade.

Checker Bloom

Pinedrop Tent

A gartersnake welcomes me back to the lower trail, which she’s been guarding for me.

Gartersnake