Mark took me for a walk up at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon, to Brighten. There is a lake there, called Silver Lake, that has one of my favorite walking trails.
Plaques have been set out along the trail, offering facts about the plants and animals who make their habitat in this wetland.
The day was overcast and easy on the eyes. The explosion of gold among the aspens was a brilliant contrast to the dark green of the pines.
Several small streams lead to the lake. Ducks and fish are bountiful.
The trail consists of part boardwalk, part dirt path.
A beautiful Stellers Jay followed us around part of the lake, hopping from limb to rock to branch just ahead of us. Was he looking for a hand-out?

A noisy squirrel descended a tree trunk and let us have it with all her wrath for disturbing her rest. Alas, she was too quick for me to take a picture of her.
Isn't it glorious?

With a happy, thankful heart,
Elizabeth