A cold dark dawn at Heart Lake. The snow line had dropped a couple of thousand feet lower down the slopes of Mt. Sheridan and now resides only a hundred feet or so above the trail down that side of the lake. Walking out this morning was exhilerating, with snow squalls sweeping through, intersperced with periods of sleet and freezing rain. Visibility was limited, and the high wind smothered my attempts to make a lot of noise. I did my best and it must have been enough - I made it out without having any more encounters in the fog and wind.
Below the clouds, you can spot the steam rising from the Rustic Geyser basin on the west side of the lake. It's a terrific morning to be alive and in Yellowstone, despite the pouring rain and blowing snow. I'm enjoying the 12 mile walk back out to the trailhead since it will be a while before I pass this way again. I'd might as well make the most of it.
In the lower photo, you can spot the run of land where last night's campsite was located, on the left side of the photo. This is good wild country and I'll never get enough of it.