we're starting our hike by going upstream (south) on the Spanish Creek trail. It is fairly flat for awhile.
There are some nice meadows along the route
A little over 2.5 miles up the trail, one arrives at the junction with the Pioneer Falls trail. We will end up coming back that way. But for us this morning, we stay left and continue upstream.
In another 2/3 of a mile or so, there is a bridge crossing the creek. The trail has been climbing but not too steeply.
Over the first five miles, the trail gains about 1000 feet. In the next three miles, it will gain another 1800 feet. Here we have arrived near the first of the Spanish Lakes, and this horse is hobbled, but very friendly.
Susie taking a photo of one of the Spanish Lakes
The photo.
We would ultimately decide to climb to the more northerly of the Spanish Lakes, as some of the camping places were taken at the lower lakes. This is "our" lake.
A nice view along the lake.
Looking back across the lake after we had set up camp and walked around.
Roger taking a photo of our campsite.
If you look carefully, you can see our tent in the trees.
A view down the Spanish Creek Valley.
Roger looking pensive. He must be cooking dinner.
The next morning, camp.
Sunlight comes to our lake.
Back on the trail, we were heading northwest, toward the Jerome Rock Lakes.
Great scenery.
Sadly, one has to lose some elevation before starting the climb over the next ridge.
Yeah, we gotta climb up there.
The saddle just to the left of the upper center is what we called "Gutbuster Pass." The trail will climb 800 feet in a short linear distance, but a huge number of switchbacks help.
Roger nearing the pass.
Looking back, the lake at which we camped last night is the nearest one, to the left of center.
The trail flattens out a bit and affords some nice views back across the Gallatin Valley.
