I really enjoyed this hike. Cool temps, breezy, great views, and the trails mostly to myself today.

I hadn't gone to the Tom's Thumb area via the Gateway TH, or been on the East End trail yet, so today was the day. The Tom's Thumb trail off of Windgate Pass trail is quite nice.

I was treated to my first Horned Lizard early on the trail. Then thought I was going goofy when I started hearing the sound of running water on the trail. Mountain Spring was the first water I'd seen up in the McDowell's.

From there it was a pretty steep climb up the many switchbacks to the top. The area by Tom's Thumb never disappoints... It's a different world up there. The wildflowers are actually still cranking pretty good on top.

Going down the East End trail was also a steep descend. I really don't have a clue how you mountain bikers do this trail!

Fast forward to the Bell Pass trail peak. The new portion of the trail (just west of the summit) is now complete. The GPS track I posted reflects the new route.