The north side of Missouri Pass had more snow than the south side. In mid-summer the trail would take you north, down toward Treasure Vault Lake (lower left) and back up east to Fancy Pass (where this photo was taken). Since the trail was covered by snow, after studying the map I decided to stay near the 12,000 foot level and traverse northeast, the mile or so toward Fancy Pass instead of hiking down and back up. (Click here to see a topographic map of the area.) My shortcut paid off but from 12000 feet there was still a 400 foot climb to get over Fancy Pass. On the way up, dark clouds were moving in and I was anxious to get over the pass and to a lower elevation on the other side. 12,400 foot Fancy Pass is no place to be at two o'clock when the weather looks like this. However, I hadn't heard any thunder so I lingered just long enough to get some more pictures and food. From here at the top of the pass you can see the mostly frozen Blodgett Lake (center right) almost two miles away. Click here to view a 360° panorama from this spot.