Cool, clear water

Looking towards Grant-Swamp pass from the trail up to Oscar's pass

Heading into Swamp Canyon towards the pass

The final loose climb to Grant-Swamp pass. Much more fun to descend!

Looking back into Swamp Canyon with Oscar's pass on the skyline a bit right of center

Looking Southeast from Grant-Swamp pass

The classic view of Island Lake with Fuller, Vermillion, and Golden Horn in the background

     I am a terrible swimmer. I was reminded of this fact yesterday as I swam out to the island in Island Lake. Luckily it was a short swim. It is something I have wanted to do since I first saw it, but it often still has ice in it when I am there, so I had refrained from taking the plunge. Yesterday, however, as I descended towards the Lake from Grant-Swamp pass the water looked pure and inviting, so I stripped down to my shorts and swam out there. Yeah, it was pretty freakin' cold. But the water was so clean and pure it primarily just felt  invigorating. I'd like more days like that. Full immersion in the natural landscape.  Moving towards something, not due to a thought, but because of an instinct.