A mixture of sun and cloud on the way up and then mostly sun on the summit and on the way down.
Spring finally - crocus on the lower section of Opal South
Spring is finally here as evidenced by the crocus flowers on the lower section of the trail. We did bump into one solitary female sheep on the way up as well.
Crossing paths on the lower section of the trail
The lower section of the trail was bare with the snow starting about half way up to the 'hump'. The snow was firm and only ankle deep up to the hump, allowing for easy travel.
Taking a break at the Hump
The group took a snack break at the 'hump'. Above the 'hump', the snow was much deeper, but still firm, allowing for easy step kicking.
Heading up through 'the gates'
A party of two was about an hour in front of us, so we were able to use their steps up through 'the gates' and along the ridge to the summit.
Approaching the summit of Opal South
It took us 3 hours to reach the summit. Great views as usual from the summit - with snow in all directions.
Ramblers on the summit of Opal South
Winter wonderland - looking towards the Opal Range from the summit
We all enjoyed a long lunch on the summit in the sun.
Marg leaving the summit of Opal South
By the time we left the summit, the clouds had disappeared and we were treated to brilliant sunshine for the trip down.
Starting the ridge traverse
A beautiful day traversing the ridge on Opal South
The snow was already beginning to soften from the heat of the sun.
Horn coral on Opal South
We stopped at the fossil bed on the way down to examine the large horn coral deposit. We were back at the vehicles by 4:15 PM. Thanks to Margaret, Inge, Richard, Barbara, Arnold, Greg , Gary and Nardi for their great company and for joining me Kevin (S/C) on a spectacular day in the mountains.
