The beginning of the trail passes a roaring waterfall as you ascend a gentle uphill grade.
Bigelow's sneezeweed and Indian paintbrush dot the landscape as you ascend to higher elevations.
If you look carefully, you might even spot some elusive blazing star on this trail.
If attempting this trail in the summer, wildflowers abound, and the smell is incredible!
The higher you climb, the more striking the mountain colors due to the high mineral concentration in this area.
As you crest the last of the switchbacks, you are rewarded with your first view of Lower Franklin Lake, the historic dam controlling it, and the towering Florence Peak.
Franklin Lake is an excellent place to relax and read a book as the sun sets behind its massive cirque.
Pass the dam and continue along the trail to camp near the bear boxes on gorgeous ledges overlooking the lake.