Mist Trail (2)

The leisurely stroll was over.

I crossed the Merced River.

From here on, the Mist Trail becomes a real hike.

Distances are deceiving. Worry more about elevation gain...



Here, it's also possible to connect with the Glacier Point trail.



Vernal Falls comes into view as the trail steepens.



Steps are hewn into the rock.



The climb is worthwhile.

Tahoe Meadows

I asked around Incline Village about good hiking.

Tahoe Meadows and Mt. Rose was suggested.

The vista point on Rt. 431 is worth a stop.



I parked off the highway just past the Mount Rose summit.


Next, found the Tahoe Rim Trailhead.


Right away I had a wildlife sighting. Strange for a Great Horned Owl to be out in daylight:



A young sapling basked in the morning light:



There was a mysterious set of tracks. Later determined to be a hare.

The Tahoe Rim Trail passes through a meadow:

Followed by switchbacks up a hillside of Manzanita:















It was a clear day.

The view from the summit was clear across Lake Tahoe.

I could see all the way to California.



I relaxed on the boulders and took in the view.


This was a good spot for a picnic.


And posing for panoramic photos.