After another hot week in the Valley, what could be better than a cool day at the lake? 22 Trailblazers agreed, and after snapping up the last parking spots at the lakeside store, settled up for stroll around the lake.

The trail follows the edge of the lake, only leaving it behind for a short distance, so the lake view is never far away.

With so many things to see the group stretches out a little bit and the back of the group is rewarded for taking their time by catching a view of a Bald Eagle. We were hoping to spot wildlife! Along the way we get to spy more wild life, including many other birds like Blue Jays, Herons, numerous lizards and snakes.

The lake is used by many. There are kayaks and canoes on the water and fisherman line the shores. Still it’s possible to find a quiet spot, and we sit down for a some rest and a little snack.

We slowly make our way back to the parking lot, not wanting to leave the lake too soon.

Since this is a relatively short hike, most of the Trailblazers are not ready to finish the day. So we decide in the parking lot that we will check out the view of the Rim. After a short drive, we leave our transportation behind and take in the expansive view under the Rim.

While under an agreed-upon time limit, this is a free-for-all individual quest for extra exercise points and photographs. We all choose our speed and distance on the paved walkway. Many pictures are taken. A geocache is found. As the time limit nears its end, Trailblazers in small groups make their way back to the parking lot.

Now we are ready for some supper! We drive back to Payson to enjoy some Thai food. All in all, another great day spent in Nature!