Sunday, July 11, 2010 BULLION KING

Bullion King is probably the prettiest area around here, but we visited just a little too early.  Some of the waterfalls were still covered in snow and the wildflowers were not in full bloom.  It was cold and rainy, so we were not able to hike up to the lake at the top (about 1/3 mile).  The elevation is 12,500 feet where we stop.  (Pictures with dates on them were taken by Charles.)
The trail starts off as a gentle climb, 

. . . but quickly becomes more difficult.  

This sign is posted at the beginning of the narrow ledge road.

Someone added "Very-very-very-narrow" at the top and "No Hummers" at the bottom.

Going up . . . carefully . . . these ledges never look as steep in the pictures:

The wildflowers are trying to pop out:

Looking over Jim's shoulder at the waterfall below; gives you a little perspective about the drop-off:

Approaching a water crossing

Looking out the window at the water-crossing as we pass thru:

Looking for level spots to park for lunch

Looking down at the road we took

We're not the only crazy people that ignore the sign

Maggie looking for snow:

All four legs off the ground

Whoa -- what's this powder stuff???

The narrow ledge road from a distance:

Some of the waterfalls starting to run

Following Charles & Jane back down

A big "bump"

Making sure Jimmy doesn't slide off the side in this slick goo!

Doesn't look steep; but it was; especially when the Jeep tilts to the outside ledge!

A critter's footprints in the goo:

Looking across the way at other trails