Sierra Joy

Ecologist. Writer. Photographer. Inflicted by a serious Travel Bug, no cure found to date. Currently writing a book about the American West while living life on the road, working with wildlife biologists and exploring our public lands. I might be your spirit animal.

I highly recommend going early when the light on the mountains is best and before the crowds hit the trail. Going early also increases your chance of arriving before the wind and getting to see all the mountains perfectly reflected in the lake.

Nice place to get out the car and see some waterfalls. Highly recommend hiking down to the falls IF you are fit and able to deal with steep trails. Its not a far way down but it is slick in sections. The rocks and trail at the bottom are very wet due to mist from the falls. Bring rain gar to stay dry and if you want to take pictures make sure you bring a few cloths to keep wiping your lens clear of moisture! Also, photographers, bring a polarizer so you can make the most of the rainbows in the mist. If you are in the area, also check out Pearsony Falls: https://www.theoutbound.com/oregon/hiking/115725

The springs were uncrowded and clean when we went. Very cool unique springs due to their depth. Perfect temperature for spending a long time swimming in. The only trash we found was old glow sticks at the bottom which we retrieved and threw away.

Easy to reach hot springs are always going to be more crowded than one might like. Diamond Fork offers many soaking areas so you can change up who you are sitting by or find a little spot on your own. Pretty, easy hike in makes this a great day trip for the whole family. Bring plenty of water.

Waterfall is viewable for the parking lot so depending on when you go it can be crowded. However it is a beautiful waterfall, as the photos show, and a nice place to stretch your legs or grab some lunch. Photographers: make sure to bring a tripod, polarizer and a neutral density filter.

On a hot day bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Photographer's won't want to leave their wide angle lens behind-great opportunities for cool shots.