Nice hike with my dog. Lots of cars at the trailhead. Didn't see a soul, though, until I got to the intersection with Ballantine trail.

1st order of business- Directions- I had 6.4 miles from 4 Peaks Turnoff to the TH. (it is easy to see anyway though)

Took the Pine Creek Southern loop in, a trail which is in worse condition than the North loop, but has way better views. From the Trailhead to the top of the hill, I didn't know what I was in for. After topping out and heading down to the intersection, the boulders were visible. Found some neat quartz lying around downhill to the south of the intersection.

Headed in through the area that was burned this summer. Cool rocks. Found some yellow flagging with writing indicating that a trail elf went through and marked improvements that need to be done, for his minions to find. Looks like the burning caused some erosion.

Didn't make it to Boulder Flat this time for various silly reasons almost too embarassing to mention (uh, thank you random trail dude who reminded me of sunscreen--2.5mi in I realized I forgot to put it on and was burning). I think I was very close.

Now that I know where this is, I'm excited to go again!

Photoset entitled "Lolo the dog visits burnt gardens."