Beautiful day to hike Black Crater

What a gorgeous day for a hike! Headed out from the trailhead about 9 am. Met a ranger who was checking day permits near the start of the trail–nice enough guy. Armed with trekking poles and some micro spikes, headed up the trail. There were snow fields to cross but able to do without post holing or need for micro spikes. Grabbed a bit of snow to ice my knee at the top: had been in the ER with septic knee bursitis 2 weeks earlier so wasn’t sure how my knee was going to tolerate the hike. Luckily it did great and didn’t puff up too much from all the activity. Had fun sliding down some of the snow fields on the the return trip.  Super happy no mosquitoes, nice breeze, wildflowers, amazing views, and the perfect temp! All in all a great day!