Day 3: Thousand Island Lake

Pre-dawn view of Banner Peak after an incredible night of bright meteors with long trails.

It's thirty-three degrees so I take this without leaving the warmth of my sleeping bag.

Light of dawn on Banner Peak.

Full light of daybreak reveals the beauty of this High Sierra setting.

After breakfast, we hike down to the lake to relax in the warm morning sun.

Easily among the best mountain scenery in the Sierras.

Two hikers pass our campsite on their way to Lake Catherine.

That afternoon, we are surprised in our campsite by five long-tailed weasels.

This cute little animal is rarely seen in the Sierras.

Jumping out for a view after briefly hiding in the rocks.

Studying our campsite for signs of food. Seems like a friendly critter.

Baby joins its mother. Maybe weasels are as ferocious as their reputation suggests.

Fading light of early evening.

Enjoying a peaceful evening in the Ritter Range.