50.11 Utah: Guardsman Pass: Clayton Peak via Bloods Lake, Lackawaxen Lake and some effort in the rear.

A view of Clayton Peak from quite a distance.
Should you enjoy the autumn colors...a view as we climb above the saddle.
 I don't think I recall having a better day on the mountains, overlooking spectacular scenery which included lakes, other surrounding mountains, treacherous trails, reflections off water and the usual tough challenge of reaching the destination. In addition, from Clayton Peak, we could view some of the lakes we have visited on other hikes or viewed from different peaks. They included three lakes below Clayton plus Lackawaxen (where do they find the names?) but not Bloods which we passed on our way up and on the return. In the distance sat Twin, Silver and Mary Lakes. Also, we viewed the various peaks we have climbed during this period and of course, those we haven't...yet. Initially, we hiked out of the way to the above lake with the strange name before returning to climb Clayton. That was an error in directions but we're pleased it occurred. Why? Who knows but it looks good on the resume. 

  Once again, Jenni selected a hike that was tough. Aren't they all in this region? It was steep and the underfoot in two places plus the whole ridge was covered in large rocks, like talus. It's actually fun climbing up and over them, scrambling really, until it becomes enough. Reaching the peak felt spectacular; it also was, as with many of the hikes in this region, longer and higher than the statistics state. Then again, we have it from a reliable source that everything is understated to avoid discouraging suckers who visit this beautiful area and superb state. We are not biased toward Utah—it just happens to be the best in the United States. You don't believe me? Well, then ask Jen. 

  We did forget to mention the autumn (fall) colors. It seems the changes are occurring rapidly. We do not exaggerate when we mention variations seem to appear before our eyes. There are three main access roads to the mountains that we know of. Big and Little Cottonwood Canyon and Mill Creek Canyon Road. We have alternated each hike between the former two and less so for the latter. As we drive through, even before hitting the trails, we notice the differences. We have undertaken sixteen hikes in this incredible region thus far and each day, the season changes have registered surprises. (See last picture for changes, 6 days later.) 

 Two years ago, we spent a couple of weeks in these mountains during summer and undertook to return for an autumn period. We could not have timed the visit better although we have spent over three weeks in one place and intend extending for a fourth time. The hotel has offered us a deal until December. We declined as we always wish to avoid snow. We do have some principles. 

  We reach Bloods Lake unscathed.
Should you have to struggle, at least choose a good background.
'Where to from here?'
A hop and a skip shortens the distance remaining.
Telephoto brings in a couple of lakes not to forget some color. Love this view.
One of two clearings along the spine.
Twin Lakes viewed from Clayton Peak.
Twin Lakes (other side of above) from Patsy Marley Peak. (For some perspective.) At the day's highpoint of 10,525 feet altitude.

And here's Jenni getting closer with Twin Lakes to the left and Silver Lake behind her.
From the peak, 10,721 feet, he seeks attention. Believe me when I tell you he was a very pleased boy. I happen to know this.
Jen stands on the second peak.
The lake we visited in 'error', Lackawaxen, before climbing to the peak.

Taken on Dog Lake Trail. Arguably, one of the best autumn mixes we've experienced.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey