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DSCF0592.JPG4 viewsThe water is so clear. I've never fished this lake. I have taken rainbow on a previous backpack to Lake 8771 to the southeast, leaving the trail at point just before it begins it's steep descent toward the North Fork Baron Creek. I look back to the north and see someone dive into lake. Fearing cardiac arrest, I'm not quite ready to take that plunge!
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DSCF0595.JPG4 viewsI wonder what caused such a thick branch to be broken from this pine. If it were lightening, one would expect the tree to be blackened from fire. Perhaps an avalanche, or wind when the branch was heavily weighted with snow. Just ahead I will refill water, and mix a much needed electrolytic replacement drink. Geographically, this is the midpoint of the hike. But then, it is all downhill now!
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DSCF0597.JPG4 viewsSouthern end of tarn (8489 feet) at the south end of Sawtooth Lake; there is less snow here than last year at this same time. It's cooled down considerably, and the shade is welcome relief.
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DSCF0602.JPG4 viewsDirect sunlight from the west illuminates the snow on Baron Peak (left), and the Monte Verita ridge behind it (center and right). I don't see the distinctive shape of Warbonnet Peak, but I am used to seeing it from the south. It may just be hidden behind Baron Peak. I don't stop to take out the sighting compass and figure out exactly what I am looking at, concerned about thunderstorms causing the North Fork Baron Creek to rise.
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DSCF0605.JPG4 viewsFour tributaries constitute the headwaters of the North Fork of Baron Creek. Of the two flowing from the north, this is the more westerly. The other two flow from the east and southeast.
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DSCF0606.JPG4 viewsLooking downstream from the previous photo, the water flows serenely, in contrast to the steep gradient just downstream.
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DSCF0610.JPG4 viewsThe trail becomes rather sparse. It is seldom traveled. At least there is shade now as the sun has set to the northwest below the steep hillside. This is a relief as I descend quickly toward Grandjean, at a much lower elevation.
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DSCF0618.JPG4 viewsThe second (and much easier) crossing of the North Fork Baron Creek from the west side. I spent some time here talking with two different parties, one group from Cincinnati, the other person from South Carolina, camped on opposite sides of the creek. I ran into more people from out of state than those who reside in Idaho. I also took the time for a much needed snack. It's now 8:30 p.m.. Just 3.5 more miles to the trailhead.
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DSCF0617.JPG4 viewsDescending switchbacks on the west facing slope to the junction with the main Baron Creek Trail, and the second crossing of the North Fork Baron Creek. I never reached direct sunlight the remainder of the hike, so the temperature was comfortable!
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DSCF0619.JPG4 viewsThis pine reminds me of a giant Bonsai tree. If only the botanist were here!
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DSCF0639.JPG4 viewsHiking gets more difficult as one nears Warm Springs Creek. This is the third time I have descended through here. Following this drainage for the most of the descent may be the easier route. The red stain on the west facing slope is an indicator that the entrance to Iron Basin is further northwest.
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DSCF0643.JPG4 viewsTwenty-five minutes of working through fallen timber leads to the crossing. There is a good trail on the east side. It couldn't be more welcome!
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