Spectacular Hike at Gold Mint Trail

It's always beautiful on the Gold Mint Trail, but today was extra gorgeous.  The walking trail was narrow and very hard icy snow.  So I chose to walk it rather than try to ski.  The silence was wonderful.  Not a soul out there with me.  The epitome of social distancing!

I stayed on the hard packed walking trail until the 2 mile point, where it abruptly stopped.  I think whoever originally packed it, had no idea where the real summer trail is.  It basically stopped at a very steep cliff that overlooked the creek.  I could see a snow machine trail far below, but I think it was on the other side of the creek.  It does look like someone scrambled down the cliff side but I didn't want to chance a fall out there all alone.  Once I left the hard pack, I sank up to my knees. So I decided it was time to turn back.  I did leave the trail for a short time and followed the remnants of a trail made by someone on snowshoes.  But I ended up back on the main trail.  I got some beautiful photos out there today.  It was only 4 miles, but just what I needed to boost my spirits.